Dental Implants have gained widespread popularity in recent years as a way to replace missing teeth or to help anchor loose and non-retentive dentures.
A dental implant is a titanium post that is placed surgically into the jawbone. On this post attachments for a denture, or a tooth (crown) can be placed. Crowns placed onto implants are not removable and aim to be a complete tooth replacement.
Advantages of implants include
1) not requiring preparation of neighbouring teeth to have a fixed replacement of a lost tooth (e.g. a bridge).
2) the tooth is not removable, so doesn't require taking it out of your mouth like dentures for cleaning.
3) Can be surgically placed under local anaesthesia, much like the majority of dental procedures. In healthy patients with good oral hygiene, implants can be a simpler procedure than extractions, and often don't require more than mild analgesics (pain medications) post operatively.
4) high success rate of 95-97% in healthy patients with good oral hygiene and no risk factors. Titanium is biocompatible and has an affinity for bone (osteointegration), so actually becomes 'stuck' into the jaw as the bone heals.
The Dental Surgery St Marys can offer a number of implant solutions whether you are missing one , two or even all of your teeth. Book an appointment on (02) 9623 1756 to discuss your case with one of our dentists.