Five things Sunbury residents should know about tooth implant treatment

Of all the tooth replacement options currently available, dental implant treatment is widely regarded as the best choice. Implants replace the roots of teeth, creating a stable foundation for the denture, crown, or bridge. The result is appearance and functionality very similar to that of natural teeth.

Here are a few things you need to know if you are considering dental implants:

• We use guided implant surgery for the placement of the implant. This ensures greater predictability, efficiency and accuracy with the implant placement process.
• The best time to begin treatment is now. The sooner implants are placed; the more bone structure you can preserve. Dental implants fight the bone loss that naturally occurs after a tooth is lost.
• It’s never too late to restore your smile. Implants are only as strong as the bone supporting them. If your teeth have been gone for a long time, or if you suffered from severe gum disease, you may not have enough bone quality and mass to support implants. However, that doesn’t mean it’s too late. Your dentist may recommend a grafting procedure to build up the bone in that area, creating a solid foundation for implants.
• Smoking can inhibit healing. This is true of any surgical procedure. Nicotine reduces blood flow in superficial vessels, which reduces the supply of oxygen and nutrients to tissues. The result is decreased healing abilities and increased risk of infection. If you smoke, it is always best to quit prior to having any kind of surgery for the best outcome.
• Implants need the same care as natural teeth. You won’t have to worry about needing special tools or spending extra time on oral hygiene. Because implants mimic the anatomy of natural teeth, they are cared for the same way. However, please be aware that hygiene and regular dental care is just as important for implants as for natural teeth. Although the materials are not vulnerable to decay, the surrounding gum tissue is still susceptible to infection if not cared for properly.
• Healing takes time, but you can keep smiling. To ensure the greatest success rate, we do not place permanent restorations until the bone has healed around the implants. Healing is virtually painless, but it can take a few months. If back teeth are being replaced, the gap will not be visible when you smile. For front teeth, we provide a temporary restoration, such as a removable partial denture, to complete your smile during the healing phase.

Implants and any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. We will discuss the risks of the procedure during your consultation as well as examine your health to ensure you are a suitable candidate for implants. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

If you are ready to complete your smile, call Smile in Style at 03 8001 6021 (Sunbury location) or 03 8400 4104 (Moonee Ponds location) and schedule a consultation to find out if you are a suitable candidate.