Dental Implants

Lane Cove Family Dentist refers patients to an experienced surgeon for placement of Implants with a special interest in Dental Implants in our Hornsby branch practice. Please contact us at Lane Cove Family Dentist Phone Number 02-9418-6102 for further information.

Dental implants are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth that look, feel and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything and can smile with confidence, knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved. The implants are tiny titanium posts that are placed into the jawbone where teeth are missing. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. In addition, dental implants can help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration which occurs when teeth are missing.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants are considered one of the most advanced and reliable solutions for missing teeth. They offer several long term advantages:

• Look and feel like natural teeth
• Allow you to eat a wide range of foods comfortably
• Help preserve jawbone density
• Prevent neighbouring teeth from shifting
• Do not rely on adjacent teeth for support
• Improve long term oral health and facial structure

Unlike removable dentures, implants are fixed in place, providing stability and confidence in everyday activities.

Dental implants are changing the way people live! With them, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life.

Evaluation for Dental Implants

If like many others, you feel implant dentistry is the choice for you, we ask that you undergo a dental/radiographic examination and health history. During these consultation visits, your specific needs and considerations will be addressed by our dentists in our practice. Your questions and concerns are important to us and our team will work with you very closely to help make your procedure a success. Need tooth extraction? Learn more here.

Dental Implant Procedure

Dental implants are metal anchors, which act as tooth root substitutes. They are surgically placed into the jawbone. Small posts are then attached to the implant, which protrudes through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.

For most patients, the placement of dental implants involves two surgical procedures. First, implants are placed within your jawbone. For the first three to six months following surgery, the implants are beneath the surface of the gums, gradually bonding with the jawbone. You should be able to wear temporary dentures and eat a soft diet during this time. At the same time, your restorative dentist designs the final bridgework or denture, which will ultimately improve both function and aesthetics.

After the implant has bonded to the jawbone, the second phase begins. The surgeon will uncover the implants and attach a small healing collar. Our dentists can then start making your new teeth. An impression must be taken. Then posts or attachments can be connected to the implants. The replacement teeth are then made over the posts or attachments. The entire procedure usually takes six to eight months. Most patients do not experience any disruption in their daily life.

How to Care for Your Dental Implants

One of the greatest advantages of dental implants is that they can be cared for in much the same way as natural teeth. With the right daily habits and regular professional check-ups, a well-placed implant can last for many years. Here is what you need to know to protect your investment and maintain the health of your implants long term.

Clean Your Implants Every Day

Dental implants may not be susceptible to decay in the same way natural teeth are, but the gum tissue and bone surrounding them can still be affected by plaque and bacteria. Poor oral hygiene around an implant can lead to a condition called peri-implantitis, which is an inflammation of the tissue around the implant that can ultimately cause bone loss and implant failure if left untreated.

To keep your implants clean and the surrounding tissue healthy:

Brush your teeth and implants at least twice a day using a soft-bristled toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste.
Pay particular attention to cleaning around the base of the implant where it meets the gum line, as this area is especially prone to plaque accumulation.
Use a low-abrasive toothpaste to avoid scratching the implant crown surface over time.

Floss Daily Around the Implant

Regular flossing is just as important for implants as it is for natural teeth. Use unwaxed dental floss or implant-specific floss to clean around the implant post and beneath the gum line each day. Water flossers can also be highly effective for cleaning around implants, particularly in areas that are difficult to reach with traditional floss.

Use Interdental Brushes Where Helpful

Small interdental brushes can be very useful for cleaning around the base of the implant crown and in the spaces between teeth. These brushes are available in a range of sizes and can reach areas that a standard toothbrush may miss. Your dentist or dental hygienist can recommend the most appropriate size for your specific implant.

Avoid Habits That Can Damage Implants

While dental implants are highly durable, certain habits can place unnecessary stress on the implant and the surrounding tissue.

Avoid chewing on hard objects such as ice, hard lollies, pen lids, or fingernails, as these can chip or crack the implant crown.
If you grind or clench your teeth, speak to your dentist about a custom night guard. Grinding places significant force on implants and can loosen or damage the restoration over time.
Avoid smoking, as it impairs healing, reduces blood flow to the gum tissue, and significantly increases the risk of implant failure and peri-implantitis.

Attend Regular Dental Check-Ups

Routine dental visits are essential for the long-term success of your dental implants. During these appointments, your dentist will assess the condition of the implant, the surrounding bone, and the gum tissue, and carry out a professional clean to remove any calculus that has built up around the implant post. Any early signs of peri-implantitis or bone loss can be identified and managed before they become more serious.

What Your Dentist Will Monitor at Each Visit

The stability and integrity of the implant and crown
The health of the gum tissue surrounding the implant
Bone levels around the implant using X-rays
Any signs of wear or damage to the implant restoration
The overall health of your remaining natural teeth and gums

Watch for Warning Signs

Between appointments, be alert to any changes around your implant that may indicate a problem requiring prompt attention, including:

Pain, swelling, or tenderness around the implant site
Bleeding or inflammation of the gum tissue around the implant
A feeling that the implant or crown has loosened or shifted
Persistent bad taste or odour in the area of the implant

Frequently Asked Questions

What are dental implants? Dental implants are tiny titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to act as a foundation for replacement teeth. The bone bonds with the titanium over time, creating a stable base for artificial teeth that look, feel, and function like natural teeth.

Am I a suitable candidate for dental implants? A dental and radiographic examination along with a full health history review is required to determine suitability. Our team will assess your specific needs during a consultation and work closely with you to ensure the best possible outcome.

How long does the dental implant procedure take? The process typically involves two surgical procedures and takes six to eight months in total. The implant is first placed into the jawbone and left to bond for three to six months, after which the replacement tooth is attached. Most patients experience little disruption to their daily life during this time.

How do I care for my dental implants? Implants can be cared for much like natural teeth. Brush at least twice a day with a soft-bristled toothbrush, floss daily around the implant, and attend regular dental check-ups. Avoid chewing on hard objects, smoking, and if you grind your teeth, ask your dentist about a night guard.

What are the signs that something may be wrong with my implant? Contact your dentist promptly if you notice pain, swelling, or tenderness around the implant, bleeding or inflamed gums, a feeling that the implant has loosened, or a persistent bad taste or odour in the area. Early assessment is important to prevent further complications.