Implants: replacement of lost teeth

This is a difficult question to answer as it can vary between people and even between implants. There is no denying that implants last many years when they are kept in good condition. We recommend that you visit us after treatment every 6 months, and that we keep monitoring the implant every year or so by taking an X-ray.

Dental implants are vulnerable to gum disease, just like teeth, so you will need to attend for regular dental visits and have a clean too.

Dental crowns are available in a variety of materials including porcelain, ceramic, zirconia (a diamond glass), or a combination of materials.

Each type of material comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. It is recommended that you discuss your options with your dental practitioner to evaluate which is the most suitable for you.

Step One - Decide on the best option

When we lose a tooth, it can be devastating. But we do live in an age where tooth replacement doesn't have to mean false teeth. Dental implants are highly successful and the best choice for tooth replacement where the two teeth either side are not filled.
If you have one or more missing teeth, a dental implant might be a suitable option if you:
+ have a fully grown, healthy jawbone
+ don’t have gum disease
+ don’t have conditions that affect bone healing

Step Two - Implant placement

First, scans and x-rays are done to give the dentist a very clear picture of where to place the implant.

The dental implant is fitted into the jawbone in a minor operation. You will usually be given an anaesthetic so that you don’t feel pain during the surgery. After this time, we can start preparing for finalising the crown with some cosmetic work. Whitening is best done during this healing phase.

In a few months, the bone grows around the dental implant.

Step Three - Scanning

Once the implant is healed and settled, we will undertake a digital scan of the tooth to have a porcelain crown fabricated for you. All our implant crowns and bridges are made right here in Melbourne.

The digital scan is quick and easy. Once the scan is complete, the digital impression is sent to our porcelain lab and the crown production begins, according to our colour and contour specifications.

Step Four - Crown placement

When you return to have the porcelain crown placed in position, we will have already checked the crown and ensured that we are highly satisfied with the result.

We will remove the implant healing cap, clean the area of any debris, and then check the porcelain crown looks and feels right. Only after all of these checks will we screw the porcelain crown into position. Your crown should look natural and invisible. After your appointment, you can return to normal activities immediately.

Dental implants are the closest replacement for missing teeth to a natural tooth. They work independently, are flossed as usual and you can eat on them securely.

A dental implant is best when:
+ There is enough bone to support an implant
+ The two teeth either side of the missing tooth do not need crowns
+ You are dentally and medically suitable for an implant
+ There are no teeth in the area to support another replacement option

A porcelain bridge permanently replaces missing teeth with false teeth. The bridge is attached to the teeth on either side of the gap. Bridges are usually made of porcelain or diamond zirconia. They are cemented over natural teeth and, for some people, are an alternative to dentures.

Dental bridges can help restore the smile and avoid someone feeling self-conscious about having missing teeth. Filling in the gap left by missing teeth is also important because, if the gap is not filled, the surrounding teeth might lean into the gap over time and change the way a person bites.
Bridges can last for many years if they are cared for properly.