This image accompanies general information about dental treatment. It should not be relied upon to determine which treatment is appropriate for you or what results you may achieve. Treatment suitability, procedures, healing and outcomes vary between individuals. Dental implant treatment involves surgery and carries risks. Please consult a dental practitioner for an individual assessment and discussion of potential benefits, risks, costs and alternatives.
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What is a dental implant?
Dental implants are a well-established replacement option for missing natural teeth. The implant acts like the root of a replacement tooth, on which a crown can be placed. During healing, bone integrates with the implant surface through a process called osseointegration, although successful integration is not guaranteed.
Thorough assessment and treatment planning are essential when considering dental implants.
Your dentist will assess whether there is sufficient bone to support the implant. If there is insufficient bone, bone grafting may be an option following individual assessment. It may be performed before or alongside implant placement and involves additional risks, costs and healing time.
Bone graft healing may take several months. The timing of implant placement depends on the grafting procedure and how healing progresses.
What are the procedures involved?
Dental implant placement involves surgery, usually under local anaesthetic. The implant is placed into the jawbone and allowed to heal. Depending on the surgical approach, it may be covered by gum tissue or have a healing component extending through the gum. Healing generally takes several months, but the treatment stages and timing vary between patients.
Your dentist will assess healing and implant stability before proceeding with the replacement tooth. If the implant is covered by gum tissue, a further procedure may be needed to expose it. In selected cases, a temporary crown can be attached at the time of implant placement, but this is not suitable for everyone.
As with any surgical procedure, dental implant treatment carries risks, including pain, swelling, bleeding, infection, nerve injury, sinus complications and implant failure. Your dentist will discuss the potential benefits, risks, costs and alternatives relevant to your circumstances before you decide whether to proceed. You may also seek an independent second opinion.
Dental implants may be an option for replacing missing teeth, but they are not suitable for everyone. Your dentist will assess your gums, available jawbone, oral hygiene, medical history, medicines and smoking status. These factors can affect healing and the risk of complications. Some patients may need treatment for existing oral health problems or assessment for bone grafting before implants can be considered.
A consultation with your dentist will help determine whether implant treatment is appropriate for your circumstances. Your dentist will discuss suitable alternatives, which may include a dental bridge or removable denture. Where appropriate, you may be referred to a registered dental specialist for further assessment or treatment.
These photographs accompany general information about dental implant treatment. They do not predict or guarantee the appearance, function or outcome that another patient may achieve. Treatment suitability, healing and results vary between individuals. An individual dental assessment is required to discuss treatment options, potential benefits, risks, costs and alternatives.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a dental implant suitable for me?
Dental implants may be suitable for some people with missing teeth, but an individual assessment is needed. Your dentist will consider your gum health, available jawbone, oral hygiene, medical conditions, medicines and smoking status, as these can affect healing and the risk of complications.
Some patients may need additional treatment before implants can be considered, while others may be better suited to a different option. Your dentist will explain the potential benefits, risks and alternatives relevant to your circumstances and discuss referral to a registered dental specialist where appropriate.
How much does a dental implant cost?
The cost of dental implant treatment varies depending on your individual needs and the treatment proposed. Costs may include consultations, imaging, implant placement, the abutment and the final crown, bridge or denture. Additional procedures, such as bone grafting or a sinus lift, may increase the total cost.
Before proceeding, ask for an itemised written estimate explaining what is included, any additional charges and expected ongoing maintenance costs. Please confirm consultation fees when booking. If you have private health insurance, check your cover and available benefits directly with your insurer.
How long does a dental implant last?
Dental implants can function for many years, but their lifespan varies and they are not guaranteed to last for life. Factors such as oral hygiene, gum health, smoking, medical conditions and bite forces can affect their longevity. Complications or implant failure may occur and require further treatment.
The crown, bridge or denture attached to an implant, as well as its connecting components, may need repair or replacement over time. Daily cleaning and dental reviews at intervals recommended by your dentist are important for ongoing care.
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