A dental implant is one of the most reliable ways to replace a missing tooth, but the cost and the idea of surgery put many people off before they understand what is actually involved. Here is a straight-talking guide from our team in Yarrabilba.
An implant is a small titanium post that is placed into the jawbone to act as an artificial tooth root. Once it has healed and fused with the bone, a crown is attached on top to give you a natural-looking tooth. Titanium is used because bone bonds to it well, which is what makes implants so stable and long lasting.
Treatment usually happens in stages. First we take a scan and plan the position. Next the implant post is placed into the jaw under local anaesthetic. The implant then needs three to six months to fuse with the bone, a process called osseointegration. Finally, once it is solid, we fit the crown that you see and chew with. Some cases need a bone graft first if there is not enough bone to hold the implant.
A single dental implant with its crown typically ranges from about $4,500 to $6,500, depending on whether you need a graft, the materials used and how many teeth are being replaced. It is more than a bridge or denture up front, but because a well-cared-for implant can last decades it often works out competitively over time. We offer payment plans so the cost can be spread out rather than paid in one hit.
The best candidates have healthy gums, enough jawbone to anchor the implant and reasonable general health. Smoking, uncontrolled diabetes and gum disease can lower the success rate, so we treat those first where possible. A quick consult and scan is the only way to know for sure, and there is no obligation to proceed.
A bridge relies on grinding down the healthy teeth either side of the gap, and a denture sits on top of the gum. An implant stands on its own and does not touch the neighbouring teeth, which is why it is often the first choice for a single missing tooth. For several missing teeth, implants can also be used to secure a bridge or a denture so it does not move.
If dental treatment makes you nervous, that is very common and we plan every step around your comfort.
With good care and regular check-ups the implant post can last 20 years or more, often a lifetime. The crown on top may need replacing after 10 to 15 years of normal wear.
The placement is done under local anaesthetic so you should not feel pain during the procedure. Most people have only mild soreness for a few days afterwards, which is easily managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
Usually three to six months from placement to the final crown, because the implant needs time to fuse with the bone before it can carry a tooth. Cases needing a bone graft take a little longer.
Often yes, but a long gap can lead to bone loss in that area. A scan shows whether you have enough bone or whether a graft is needed first.