Dental Implants in Subiaco

Dental implants are known for their durability, with an average lifespan of 20 years. This survival rate can vary among patients, depending on how well they are maintained and cared for. Other factors that can affect their longevity include oral hygiene practices, bone health, lifestyle choices, underlying health conditions, and the quality of implant placement and care.

Proper care, professional cleanings, and routine check-ups help maintain your dental implants in optimal condition. We encourage you to talk to your dentist, as they can provide a more specific estimate of the lifespan of your dental implants.

Dental implants are a popular choice for replacing missing teeth, but not everyone can be a suitable candidate. As we’ve mentioned, several factors determine one’s eligibility for dental implants, making it essential to evaluate each case individually. These can include the patient’s medical conditions, oral health, hygiene, the density of the jawbone, and lifestyle habits. Generally, smokers and those who grind their teeth are unlikely to become suitable candidates for dental implants and may see alternative treatment options.

If you have concerns or are uncertain about eligibility for dental implants in Subiaco, don’t hesitate to consult our team. We can provide guidance and recommendations specific to your case.

You can expect to experience some discomfort, slight pressure, or vibrations during the dental implant procedure, but these are generally well-tolerated. Fortunately, advanced techniques and the use of anaesthesia have significantly minimised discomfort. Your dentist will administer the anaesthesia to numb the implant area and the surrounding soft tissues and prevent you from experiencing pain.

After the dental implant surgery and the anaesthesia wears off, it is normal to experience mild discomfort for the first several days. This can be managed with prescribed pain medications. The level of discomfort varies among patients, but if you feel unbearable pain that persists, you should report it to your dentist.

Following the post-surgery care for dental implants provided by your dentist can help alleviate discomfort and promote optimal healing. If you have concerns about pain during or after the dental implant procedure, discuss them with your dentist. At West Perth Dental Centre, we can provide personalised advice and support to keep you comfortable during the implant treatment.

The cost of dental implants can vary based on the type of implant and the specific needs.

Here are the average costs for different types of dental implants:

• Single-tooth implants:

  $5,000 per tooth

• Implant-supported dentures:

  $20,000

• All-on-4 dental implants:

  $25,000 per jaw

• With bone graft or sinus lift:

  $11,500 per single implant

The cost of dental implants can vary significantly and is influenced by multiple factors, including the complexity of your case, the materials used, and any additional procedures needed. Although the upfront cost of dental implants may seem high, they play a crucial role in enhancing your long-term oral health and overall well-being. It is important to schedule a consultation with your dentist to get a detailed cost estimate of your treatment. At West Perth Dental Centre, one of the dentists in our team can estimate the potential costs of your dental implants in Subiaco.

Dental implants are generally considered a high-cost treatment due to several factors, including:

• Materials used:

  High-quality materials, such as titanium screws for implants and porcelain for crowns, contribute to the overall cost.

• Complex dental procedures:

  Dental implant placement involves surgical procedures, which require advanced skills and technology.

• Latest dental equipment:

  Advanced dental equipment, such as 3D imaging and computer-guided surgery tools, adds to the expense.

• Dental professional’s experience and skills:

  Dentists who perform a dental implant procedure have undergone extensive training and education and have years of experience, which adds value to the dental service they provide.

• Multiple dental appointments:

  The implant process involves several stages, including consultation, oral surgery, and follow-up visits, contributing to the total cost.

• Laboratory costs:

  Custom-made crowns and bridges require laboratory work, which involves additional expenses.

• Bone grafting or sinus lifts:

  Additional dental procedures, like bone grafting or sinus lifts, are sometimes necessary and can increase the cost.

Despite the high initial cost, dental implants offer long-term advantages that can justify the investment. They provide a durable and reliable dental restoration for missing teeth, often lasting for many years with proper care. Teeth implants also help preserve jawbone health and maintain facial structure, offering benefits that other tooth replacement options cannot provide.

The answer depends on the policy of your preferred health fund or the extent of the dental plan you have. The cover for tooth implants widely differs so it’s important to contact your provider and review the details. They are more knowledgeable about the extent of cover and can provide you with more insightful information. Some policies might cover a portion of the procedure, while others may only cover related costs, such as consultations or follow-up visits.

Additionally, exploring supplementary health fund options might be beneficial if your current plan does not offer sufficient dental cover for implants. Exploring various health funds can help you find a plan that better meets your needs.

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 primarily made from two materials: titanium and zirconia. Both materials are known for their durability and biocompatibility.

• Titanium:

  Titanium is the most common material used for dental implants. It is favoured because of its strength, lightweight nature, and ability to fuse with bone. Titanium implants have a high success rate and are well-tolerated by the body, reducing the risk of rejection.

• Zirconia:

  Zirconia implants are a metal-free alternative to titanium. They are made from a ceramic material known for its strength and aesthetic appeal. Zirconia is highly biocompatible and offers a natural tooth-like appearance, making it a good choice for patients with metal sensitivities or allergies. These implants are also resistant to corrosion and fracture, offering durability.

Both titanium and zirconia implants provide strong and reliable tooth replacement options. The choice between the two materials depends on various factors, including patient preference, aesthetic considerations, and potential metal allergies. A consultation with a dental professional is a reliable way to determine the suitable implant material based on your individual needs and circumstances.

Dental implants have a success rate of 90% to 95% over a 10-year period. This high success rate is due to factors like the quality of materials used, advanced surgical techniques, and patient health. Regular dental check-ups and diligent oral hygiene are also crucial for maintaining the success of dental implants. Good oral care practices, including brushing, flossing, and professional cleanings, help prevent complications and increase the lifespan of your implants.

Proper care for teeth implants is essential to promoting their longevity and functionality. Here are the steps to maintain your dental implants:

• Regular brushing:

  Use a toothbrush with soft bristles and non-abrasive fluoride toothpaste to clean your dental implants and natural teeth twice daily.

• Floss daily:

  Floss around the implant to remove plaque and food particles to prevent gum disease and peri-implantitis.

• Use an antibacterial mouthwash:

  Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash to reduce bacteria in your mouth.

• Routine dental visits:

  Visit your dentist for routine check-ups so they can monitor your dental implant’s condition and provide treatment as early as possible when necessary.

• Professional cleanings:

  Have your artificial and natural teeth professionally cleaned by your dentist to remove plaque buildup or tartar.

• Quit smoking:

  Smoking can impede healing and increase the risk of implant failure. Quitting smoking is beneficial for overall oral health.

Yes, they can be used to replace multiple missing teeth. They can act as artificial tooth roots, supporting various dental restorations such as bridges or dentures. There are different types of dental implants, and the choice depends on how many teeth you need to replace. Your oral health condition and personal preferences also play a role in determining which type of implant is for you.

• Multiple implants:

  In cases where several teeth are missing, multiple implants can be used to replace them. This option is suitable for replacing two to five missing teeth.

• All-on-4 implants:

  For those missing all their teeth, All-on-4 tooth implants provide a stable alternative to support an entire arch of teeth with only four implant posts.

• Implant-supported dentures:

  These dentures are anchored by implants, offering a secure and comfortable fit compared to traditional dentures. Implant-supported dentures can be suitable for patients with several missing or severely damaged teeth.

Using dental implants for multiple teeth helps preserve the remaining natural teeth and promotes bone growth. Unlike traditional bridges, implants do not require adjacent teeth to be reshaped for support, which is beneficial for long-term oral health.

If you are considering dental implants in Subiaco, contact West Perth Dental Centre. We can help you find the most suitable type of dental implant to restore your smile confidently.

While dental implants are generally safe for most patients, there are potential risks and complications that you should be aware of. Understanding these risks can help make decisions about the dental procedure.

• Risk of infection:

  It can occur if proper post-surgery care for dental implants and oral hygiene is not followed. Signs include swelling, pain, and pus on the implant area.

• Nerve damage:

  Nerve damage might occur during implant placement, causing pain, tingling, or numbness in the teeth, gums, lips, or chin.

• Sinus issues:

  Implant posts in the upper jaw can protrude into the sinus cavity, resulting in sinus problems. Symptoms include sinus pressure and headaches.

• Allergic reaction:

  Although it rarely happens, an allergic reaction to the titanium alloy in the implant can occur. It can cause inflammation and discomfort.

• Mechanical problems:

  Components of the implant can loosen or fracture, often due to excessive force or wear. Signs include implant mobility and difficulty chewing.

Choosing a skilled and experienced dental professional is crucial to minimising these risks and facilitating the success of your implants. Your dentist at West Perth Dental Centre will discuss the potential risks of tooth implants and perform the necessary precautions to prevent them. For tips, we highly suggest following the post-operative instructions to help minimise complications and promote optimal healing and osseointegration.

The initial recovery period following a dental implant surgery usually lasts one to two weeks. During this period, you might experience minor swelling and discomfort, which should gradually subside.

Complete healing and integration of the dental implant, known as osseointegration, generally takes about three to six months. This phase is crucial to making the implant fuse properly with the jawbone. For some patients, osseointegration may take longer, depending on unique healing abilities and specific case factors.

Consulting with your dentist about the estimated duration of your recovery period can help you understand and prepare. Following your dentist’s instructions for post-surgery care for dental implants and attending all follow-up appointments is essential for a successful recovery.