What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a permanent solution for replacing missing teeth, functioning similarly to natural tooth roots. Typically made of titanium, they are surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as a sturdy base for dental crowns, bridges, or dentures. Implants are durable, versatile, and help improve the look and functionality of your teeth.
Here are some common reasons for choosing dental implants:
- Missing Teeth: Implants are an effective way to replace one or more missing teeth due to injury, decay, or gum disease.
- Improved Function: They restore the ability to eat and speak comfortably, contributing to better oral health.
- Aesthetic Improvement: Implants fill gaps and provide a natural-looking tooth replacement, enhancing your smile.
- Bone Health: Implants help maintain jawbone structure by stimulating bone growth and preventing bone loss where teeth are missing.
- Comfort: Designed to mimic natural teeth, implants offer a comfortable and reliable option for tooth replacement.
Dental implants are a long-term solution that can improve your oral health and overall quality of life. If you are experiencing any of these issues, dental implants may be a suitable choice for you.
The Benefits Of Dental Implants
Dental implants are an excellent solution for missing teeth, offering numerous advantages. They closely resemble natural teeth, blending seamlessly into your smile and boosting confidence. Anchored securely to the jawbone, they provide stability and comfort, allowing you to eat, smile, and laugh freely. Dental implants also stimulate bone growth, strengthening the jawbone and enhancing oral health. As a durable and attractive long-term option, they prevent bone loss and create a natural-looking, cohesive smile.
- Dental implants closely mimic the appearance of natural teeth, complementing your smile perfectly.
- They offer stability and comfort by securely fusing with the jawbone.
- Implants allow you to eat, laugh, and smile with confidence and without discomfort.
- They encourage bone regeneration, improving jawbone strength.
- Dental implants are a durable and aesthetically pleasing option for replacing missing teeth.
- They help maintain oral health by preventing additional bone loss.
- Opting for dental implants lets you restore self-assurance and achieve a natural, harmonious smile.
What to Expect on Your Dental Implant Treatment Journey
The implant placement process is often more comfortable than many people anticipate, exceeding initial expectations.
Evaluation
Your journey begins with a dental implant consultation to assess whether implants are suitable for your needs. During this appointment, your dentist will use X-rays and a 3D cone-beam CT scan to evaluate the condition of your jawbone and create a personalised treatment plan. Additionally, a scan or impression of your teeth will be taken to determine the optimal positioning for the implant.
Inserting the implant
To ensure a pain-free procedure, the surgical site is fully numbed with anaesthetic. The dentist carefully creates a small opening in the gums and bone before positioning the implant post into the prepared area. In some cases, stitches may be used to close the gums, though this step is not always required.
Finalizing the Restoration
After a few months of healing, you will return to have your dental restoration placed. Once the restoration is secured onto the implant, you will leave with a fully functional and natural-looking new tooth.
Contact us today
to schedule an initial consultation & exam.
Your consultation will include an examination of everything from your teeth, gums and soft tissues to the shape and condition of your bite. Generally, we want to see how your whole mouth looks and functions. Before we plan your treatment we want to know everything about the health and aesthetic of your smile, and, most importantly, what you want to achieve so we can help you get there.
Cost of Dental Implants in Newcastle
In Newcastle, the cost of a single dental implant generally falls between $3,000 and $6,000 or more, depending on individual circumstances.
Several factors influence the overall cost of dental implant surgery, including:
- The type and number of implants required
- The materials and tools used
- The skill and experience of the dental professionals
- The complexity and location of the procedure
- The expected recovery process
It’s important to understand that an exact cost estimate cannot be provided over the phone. During a dental examination, all relevant factors will be evaluated, and a detailed quote will be given in person to support your decision-making.
While dental implants are a popular choice for replacing missing teeth, other options are available. For smaller gaps involving one to three missing teeth, a dental bridge may be a practical solution. For significant tooth loss, whether in the upper or lower jaw or the entire mouth, removable dentures or dental prosthetics may be considered. When comparing the cost of dental implants with other alternatives, it’s essential to weigh their pros and cons.
Although dental implants may involve a higher initial cost, they offer superior stability and longevity compared to bridges or dentures. Removable prosthetics often require more frequent maintenance, adjustments, or replacements over time. In contrast, dental implants are maintained like natural teeth, with regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups. With proper care, implants can provide a lifetime solution.
Frequently Asked Questions
Dental implants are intended to be a durable solution for missing teeth. With proper maintenance and care, they can last for several years or even a lifetime.
The procedure is usually performed under local anaesthesia, so you shouldn’t experience pain during the surgery. Mild discomfort or swelling might occur afterward, but this can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medication.
Taking care of dental implants is much like caring for your natural teeth. Brush and floss daily, attend regular dental check-ups, and avoid biting or chewing on hard objects like ice or hard candies.
Coverage for dental implants varies depending on your insurance plan and the purpose of the procedure. Some plans may offer partial coverage, while others may not include it. Contact your insurance provider for specific details.
Most individuals are good candidates for dental implants, but factors like general health, oral condition, and jawbone quality can influence eligibility. Your dentist can evaluate your case to determine if implants are the right choice for you.
The process can take several months, depending on the case. The initial surgery to place the implant usually takes 1-2 hours, but the implant must integrate with the jawbone before the final restoration can be placed.
In certain cases, implants can be placed in one day using a technique known as immediate load implants. However, not all patients are eligible, and this approach may have a lower success rate compared to traditional methods.
If you have missing teeth and are looking for a durable, natural-looking replacement, dental implants could be a suitable solution. Speak with your dentist to assess whether they are the best option for your specific needs.