Dental Implants in Northbridge

Dental implants have an average lifespan of 10 to 20 years. However, this is a rough estimate and varies among patients. To maximise their lifespan, it’s important to maintain a rigorous oral hygiene routine to minimise plaque buildup and prevent dental decay and gum disease.

While dental implants offer various benefits for oral health and quality of life, not everyone is a good candidate for this procedure. As we’ve mentioned earlier, several factors determine eligibility for dental implants, and it’s important to assess these before considering the treatment.

• Bone density:

  Healthy bone density in the jaw is essential to supporting the dental implant. If you lack sufficient jawbone, additional dental procedures like bone grafting may be required.

• Gum health:

  Dental implant placement requires a surgical procedure, so healthy gums are essential. Patients with gum disease must receive proper dental treatment before proceeding with tooth implants.

• Overall health:

  Certain medical conditions, such as uncontrolled diabetes or autoimmune disorders, can affect healing and implant success. It is important to manage these health conditions or consider alternative tooth replacement options.

• Smoking:

  Smoking can weaken gum tissues and impede the healing process, which can increase the risk of tooth implant failure. Patients who smoke are encouraged to quit before undergoing the procedure.

A comprehensive evaluation by a dentist is necessary to determine if dental implants are suitable for you. They have the required skills to perform diagnostic assessments, including imaging studies, to evaluate your bone structure and overall oral health.

The short answer is no. Dentists administer anaesthesia on the day of the dental implant placement. This medication numbs the gums and surrounding area to prevent the sensation of pain, keeping you comfortable throughout the procedure.

Generally, you might experience pressure or slight discomfort, but it is usually manageable. We encourage you to report any pain that becomes unbearable so your dentist can take the necessary actions to alleviate it.

After the dental implant procedure, discomfort is common. It generally occurs along with swelling or tenderness in the surgical area. The level of discomfort can vary among patients, but most people report mild to moderate pain. At West Perth Dental Centre, we provide post-surgery care for dental implants to help you manage the side effects or symptoms mentioned above.

Below is a general breakdown of the costs associated with different types of dental implants:

• Single dental implants:

  For straightforward dental implants, the average cost starts at $5,000 per tooth.

• Dental implants with bone graft or sinus lift:

  When additional dental procedures like a bone graft or sinus lift are required, the cost can reach $11,500 per single implant.

• Implant-supported dentures:

  This type of procedure costs approximately $20,000.

• All-on-4 dental implants:
  The cost for an all-on-4 fixed arch is around $25,000.

The cost of dental implants can vary significantly depending on each patient’s specific needs and circumstances. Factors like the complexity of the patient’s case and the selection of materials can influence the price.

It is important to consult with a dentist to get an accurate estimate and understand the factors influencing the price. At West Perth Dental Centre near North Bridge, we can provide an estimate of the cost of dental implants based on your needs.

Below are several factors that contribute to the cost of dental implants:

• High-quality materials:

  The materials used for dental implants significantly affect the cost due to their exceptional quality.

• Advanced technology and equipment:

  Placing dental implants requires advanced technology and equipment. This includes digital imaging systems, surgical approaches, and precision instruments. These technologies enable accurate placement and promote optimal outcomes, but they also increase the overall cost.

• Dentist’s knowledge and training:

  Dentists performing dental implant procedures have extensive training and education. This training and experience usually come at a higher cost, contributing to the overall expense.

• The placement of dental implants:

  Generally, surgical dental procedures can be complex, requiring careful planning, execution, and advanced skills. These invasive efforts significantly affect the cost.

The cost of dental implants reflects the high-quality materials, advanced technology, dentist’s skills, and customisation involved in the process. Although they may have a higher initial cost, their long-term benefits and durability make them a worthwhile investment in oral health.

It depends on the specifics of your health fund and the level of dental plan you have. Most health funds offer some level of cover for dental treatments, including tooth implants. However, the extent of cover can differ significantly between different health funds and policies.

Even with health fund cover, you may still have out-of-pocket expenses. These can include costs not covered by the policy or amounts exceeding your annual limits. It is important to budget for these additional costs and discuss payment plans with your dentist, if necessary.

To determine if your health fund covers dental implants, review your policy details or contact your health fund directly. Ask about specific inclusions, exclusions, and any out-of-pocket expenses you may incur.

Patients undergoing the dental implant procedure can expect a thorough and carefully planned process. Initially, there will be a consultation, during which the dentist evaluates your dental health. Once you are deemed suitable for the procedure, you can expect the following:

• Administering anaesthesia:

  Anaesthesia is administered to numb the area and minimise discomfort on the day of the procedure. Most patients under anaesthesia report feeling pressure rather than pain during the implant placement.

• Making incisions:

  Once the anaesthesia takes effect, the dentist begins to make incisions in the gum tissues to gain access to the bone.

• Drilling into the jawbone:

  The dentist carefully drills into the jawbone to create a space for the dental implant. This step is crucial as it allows the implant to be securely anchored in place.

• Insertion of metal posts:

  Then, your dentist will carefully insert the dental implants into the jawbone.

• Stitches:

  After placing the tooth implants underneath, the dentist will close the incisions with stitches to help promote healing.

• Healing process:

  Following the initial surgical procedure, a healing period is required to allow the implant post to fuse with the jawbone. This healing phase is called “osseointegration,” and its duration can vary but generally takes at least three months.

• Second oral surgery:

  After the initial healing period, a second oral surgery is performed to attach the abutment to the implant. This involves reopening the gum to expose the implant post and securing the abutment. The abutment acts as the connector between the implant and the final dental restoration, such as a crown, denture, or bridge.

• Placement of the prosthetic tooth:

  The final step involves attaching the custom-made prosthetic tooth to the abutment. This is designed to match the colour, shape, and size of your natural teeth, providing a seamless and natural appearance.

Some dental implant treatment processes may differ slightly from the information provided here. We highly suggest consulting your dentist at West Perth Dental Centre to know the precise steps involved in your implant treatment.

Dental implants are made from materials that are biocompatible, durable, and suitable for long-term use. The primary materials used are titanium and zirconia. Here’s a detailed overview:

• Titanium:

  Pure titanium is the most widely used material for dental implants. It is known for its exceptional biocompatibility. This means that it integrates well with bone without causing adverse reactions. Titanium implants are strong, lightweight, and have a high success rate. This metal has been used in dental and medical applications for many years due to its reliability and durability.

• Zirconia:

  Zirconia is a ceramic material that is gaining popularity in dental implants. It is metal-free, making it a suitable option for dental patients with allergies or sensitivities to metals. Zirconia implants are strong and biocompatible. Their white colour makes them aesthetically pleasing, providing a more natural appearance in the mouth.

When choosing dental implants, it is important to discuss with your dentist which material is suited to your unique needs and preferences. They have the required skills and knowledge to perform the necessary evaluation and provide appropriate recommendations.

Dental implants boast a high success rate, making them a trusted option for replacement teeth. Research shows that it ranges from 90% to 95% over a ten-year period, emphasising their reliability and effectiveness.

The long-term success of dental implants is evident, with many people enjoying their benefits for many years. Proper care and maintenance play a crucial role in promoting their longevity. Dental professionals highly advise the importance of routine check-ups and practising good oral hygiene habits.

The survival rate of your dental implants significantly depends on proper care and long-term maintenance. Here are some essential tips:

• Post-surgery care for dental implants:

  Use prescribed mouth rinses to keep the area clean and avoid strenuous activities that might disturb the implant site. Follow post-surgery care for dental implants provided by your dentist to help promote proper healing.

• At-home implant care:

  At-home implant care involves maintaining thorough oral hygiene practices. Brush twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste. Remember to floss daily to remove plaque and food particles around the implant and between your real teeth.

• Regular dental visits:

  Visit your dentist regularly to monitor the health of your implants and your overall oral health. They will check for signs of dental disease and check if the implants are functioning properly. Routine visits also provide a proactive approach to receiving professional cleanings to help prevent complications and maintain a beautiful smile.

• Gentle care:

  When caring for your tooth implants, use gentle care techniques to avoid damaging the artificial tooth or surrounding tissues. Avoid using abrasive toothpaste or hard-bristle brushes, as these can cause irritation and potential damage.

• Avoiding harmful habits:

  Part of taking care of your implants is avoiding certain habits, such as smoking or chewing on hard objects. These activities can result in implant failure or complications with your teeth and gums.

Please consult your dentist for recommended dental implant care specific to your needs, oral health, lifestyle, and personal preferences.

Yes, dental implants can effectively replace several missing teeth. Depending on your case, several options are available, including multiple implants, implant-supported dentures, and All-on-4 implants. The selection of implant type is based on factors such as bone density, overall oral health, and the number of teeth requiring restoration.

Dental implants are generally safe, but like any surgical procedure, they carry some risks and potential complications:

• Infection:

  Infection can develop at the tooth implant area. Maintaining good dental hygiene and following post-surgery care for dental implants can help prevent this.

• Implant failure:

  Implant failure can happen if the implant does not integrate with the bone. This is more common in smokers or patients with certain health conditions.

• Nerve damage:

  Though rare, nerve damage can cause pain, tingling, or numbness in the gums, lips, or chin. Proper surgical planning minimises this risk.

• Sinus problems:

  Dental implants inserted in the upper jaw can cause sinus problems if they protrude into the sinus cavities.

• Peri-implantitis:

  This is an inflammatory condition that affects the soft and hard tissues around the implant, resulting in bone loss. Good oral hygiene is crucial to prevent this.

At West Perth Dental Centre, your dentist takes the necessary precautions and measures to minimise these risks. Our team will also help you understand the potential risks and complications to keep you informed.

The recovery time following a dental implant surgery varies for each patient but generally ranges from a few weeks to several months.

• Initial healing phase:

  The initial healing phase generally lasts one to two weeks. During this time, it is important to follow post-surgery care for dental implants, including maintaining good oral hygiene and avoiding strenuous activities.

• Osseointegration period:

  Osseointegration, where the implant fuses with the jawbone, can take three to six months.

• Final restoration:

  This final step of attaching abutment and artificial teeth usually requires a few additional weeks for complete healing, generally requiring another one to two weeks.

It’s important to note that the complete recovery time after getting dental implants takes about three to six months or longer. Recovery time varies, as different patients have unique healing abilities. Your dentist can provide a more specific estimate of the length of time based on your case.