Dental Implants

Implants vs. Dentures: Which Do I Need?

Smiling Couple Dental ImplantsModern restorative dentistry has produced a number of potential solutions for patients missing most or all of their teeth. The right treatment for you will depend on several factors, such as the amount of teeth you are missing, the location of the missing teeth, your jawbone density and more. Below, our experienced team at The Paddington Dental Surgery compares a traditional option, removable dentures, with the more advanced dental implants.

Traditional dentures, often referred to simply as “dentures,” are removable prosthetic devices designed to replace missing teeth (as well as some of the surrounding gum tissue). They’re custom-crafted to sit comfortably atop the gums and match the patient’s natural teeth. Dentures can replace full arches of teeth (complete dentures) or only some of the teeth (partial dentures), and are typically kept in place with a dental adhesive. When properly cared for, dentures can make everyday activities – such as chewing and speaking – much easier for patients with missing teeth.

On the other hand, dental implants consist of a titanium root that is embedded into the jawbone and topped with an artificial tooth. Like traditional dentures, implants are created to emulate natural teeth in structure and appearance. They can replace a single tooth at a time, or be incorporated into a custom set of implant-supported dentures. This type of prosthetic typically provides a sturdy, comfortable fit – and unlike their removable counterparts, implant-supported dentures do not slip or move within the mouth, nor do they require any messy adhesives. Additionally, whereas removable dentures require daily cleaning and significant maintenance, caring for dental implants is usually as simple as practising good oral hygiene (i.e. brushing, flossing and attending regular exams).

Whilst traditional dentures are still used by dental professionals around the world, dental implants – as well as implant-supported dentures – have essentially usurped them as the most popular option for tooth replacement. With this in mind, patients may be better suited for removable dentures in certain cases, namely if they have insufficient jawbone density to qualify for implants.*

The best way to determine the right treatment for you is to meet with one of our compassionate dentists. We will perform a thorough examination of your oral health and provide expert guidance to help you make a decision. To schedule a first-time consultation, we welcome you to contact The Paddington Dental Surgery.

Medical References*

Healthline

Sydney Dentists Share What to Know Before Getting Dental Implants

The Paddington Dental Surgery’s team of dentists share insight on dental implants for those interested in the procedure.

Sydney, AU – At The Paddington Dental Surgery, the team of Sydney dentists has seen consistently exceptional results using dental implants. These customisable, durable, natural-looking tooth replacements can be used to treat countless functional and cosmetic issues. According to the dentists, implants often feel and look so natural that few can distinguish them from real teeth.

As leaders in Sydney’s dental industry, The Paddington Dental Surgery team takes pride in educating patients whenever possible. For those interested in replacing missing teeth with dental implants, the dentists have put together this list of important facts to consider before getting the advanced solution.

Implants offer a wide range of benefits, The Paddington Dental Surgery team adds. Not only are they extremely sturdy (in fact, they can be stronger than natural teeth), but they can accommodate as many or as few teeth as the patient needs, from single-tooth implants to full-mouth teeth replacements (i.e., All-on-4™ implant-supported dentures). They can also maintain a healthy jawbone structure, a significant advantage they hold over traditional dentures, which do not help prevent bone recession. The dentists also stress implants’ ability to stay in place without slipping or causing speech difficulties.

At The Paddington Dental Surgery, the dental implant procedure generally involves a three-step process: planning, placement, and the final restoration. Each dental implant crown is designed to emulate the patient’s natural teeth, from its shade to its shape. Before the crown is specially crafted, a titanium post is surgically placed in the patient’s mouth. This implant fuses to the jawbone in a process called osseointegration, which can take three to six months. After the final crown is placed, however, patients usually report that it was well worth the wait.

Although most people can be considered a candidate for this treatment, the dentists explain, those with insufficient jawbone structure may be pointed toward a different procedure. For those who are eligible for dental implants, the procedure has helped improve the oral health and overall quality of life for patients all over the world.

About The Paddington Dental Surgery

The Paddington Dental Surgery in Sydney has been a trusted dental team for many years. The practice, established in 2003, provides a comprehensive list of treatments for patients of all ages, rendering it an ideal practice for families. Dr Duncan Copp and the rest of the team have received wonderful feedback from the practice’s devoted patients, and the office is equipped with some of the most innovative technology available. Dr Copp and the rest of the team are available for interview upon request.

For more information about dental implants and The Paddington Dental Surgery, visit thepaddingtondentalsurgery.com.au.

Contact:

The Paddington Dental Surgery
263 Glenmore Road
Paddington NSW 2021
Sydney, Australia
(02) 9331-2555

Rosemont Media
(800) 491-8623
www.rosemontmedia.com

How Many Implants Will I Need For My Implant Denture?

Implant-supported dentures have restored the smiles, as well as the self-confidence, of countless patients around the world. They are designed to replace multiple teeth at once, often feeling and looking so natural that it is difficult to tell the difference. 

Widely considered a more desirable option than removable dentures, implant-supported dentures combine the general form of dentures with sturdy titanium dental implants. As dental implants are known to produce excellent, long-lasting results, implant-supported dentures have proven effective for many in turn. While these anchored dentures are secured by four to six implants, the precise number of implants you need will depend on a few factors. 

Implant-supported dentures generally come in three different types: 

  • Full-mouth reconstruction, in which a combination of two or more procedures are needed to restore oral function and improve smile appearance. A full-mouth reconstruction may incorporate implant-supported dentures when multiple teeth are missing or irreparably damaged. 
  • All-on-4™, in which four implants are used as “anchors” to secure each denture in a sturdy position. All-on-4 can effectively replace both the upper and lower teeth layers of your mouth.
  • All-on-6, in which six implants are used as anchors. All-on-6™ is often used when the jawbone is not strong enough to only be supported by four implants and needs the extra security of two additional implants. 

Your dentist will help you decide the appropriate number of implants based on the location of the teeth you need replaced (upper or lower), the particular condition of your mouth or jaw, the strength of your bones, and more. Before the procedure, your dentist will thoroughly inspect your mouth and plan the specifics of your surgery to ensure a safe and successful implant placement. This consultation will also provide an opportunity for your dentist to determine the number of implants you will need for your new denture.

Our team at The Paddington Dental Surgery strives to provide a safe, compassionate, encouraging environment in our Sydney office. We always welcome questions and concerns and will do our best to address both so you are well-informed. Schedule your consultation to discuss implant-supported dentures today.

How Can Dental Treatments Make Me Look Younger?

ModelWhen it comes to rejuvenating one’s facial appearance, most people don’t think of going to their dentist. However, with the right dental treatment plan tailored to your specific needs, you can address common signs of aging and turn back the clock. At The Paddington Dental Surgery, our dental team offers a variety of solutions that can enhance the look of your smile. For patients wanting to achieve a younger-looking facial appearance, a dental facelift can reverse unwanted changes caused by aging. Using porcelain veneers, the dental facelift process can address concerns such as the following:

  • Thinning lips
  • Stained, chipped, or cracked teeth
  • Overbite or underbite
  • Hollow-looking cheeks
  • Wrinkles

By enhancing tooth size and shape, veneers can help restore youthful facial contours that have been affected by lax facial muscles and worn-down teeth. To learn more about the dental facelift and how it can help you reverse the effects of aging with incredibly natural-looking results, please contact us to schedule an appointment.

How Do I Choose the Right Dentist for My Dental Implants?

A highly recommended solution for missing teeth, dental implants can provide a natural-looking result that’s both strong and long-lasting. To ensure the outcome is all of those things, it’s important for patients to choose an experienced and qualified dentist who is dedicated to safety, results, and patient care. To help you identify the right dental professional for you, we have provided some ways to identify a potential oral surgeon:

  • Review their educational background
  • Ask if they have completed additional training in dental implantology
  • Ask if they have dental implant before-and-after photos you can look over, or if they have patients who have had the procedure you can speak with
  • Ask how often they perform this procedure
  • Discuss your goals—do they make you feel comfortable about their recommended treatment? Are there alternatives, like All-on-4™ or implant dentures, that you can consider?

The dentist you choose should put you at ease and make you feel confident in their approach. It’s normal to be a little nervous before a procedure, but you should be reassured by the dentist’s demeanor and “bedside” manner.

The team at Paddington Dental Surgery is extensively trained in placing dental implants, and he will make every effort to help you find a solution to your concerns that is comfortable, beautiful, and functional. Talk to us today to learn more and to schedule a consultation.

What Is All-on-4™?

Having a smile that is uncomfortable, physically or psychologically, is a major concern for many people. If you’re using a traditional removable denture to replace missing teeth, you may experience difficulty eating what you like and having the confidence to smile whenever you feel like it. Fortunately, a solution that bridges the gap between a full set of dental implants and traditional removable dentures is available, and it’s called All-on-4.

All-on-4, as the name suggests, uses four dental implants to secure a denture appliance to either the upper arch, lower arch, or both. In some instances, six dental implants are used, in which case this procedure is known as All-on-6. The location of the dental implants is carefully selected to provide a strong, secure, and comfortable fit that shouldn’t wiggle or chafe. Additionally, the denture is designed to look like a natural set of teeth. All-on-4 implant-anchored dentures offer lower maintenance than traditional dentures, a lower cost than a full set of dental implants, and the fantastic outcome you have come to expect from our practice.

Ready to trade in traditional dentures for something a bit more modern? Talk to us today to see if All-on-4 is right for you.

Am I a Candidate for Implant Dentures?

Considered to be the gold standard replacement for missing teeth, dental implants are a popular choice for many people who want to restore their smiles after tooth loss. Even better, there are a multitude of implant options for patients to best suit their individual needs and goals. Implant-supported dentures can help individuals who want to move away from traditional removable dentures but may not want or may not be candidates for a full set of dental implants. We can determine if implant dentures are right for you during a thorough evaluation at your initial consultation. Some of the factors that we will look for during this examination are:

  • Sufficient jawbone density
  • Good overall health
  • No disqualifying medical conditions

Patients who are not candidates for a full set of dental implants may still be qualified for this procedure, as fewer implants are needed to achieve the desired outcome. If your implant dentures aren’t quite right, we can recommend an alternative approach that still offers an excellent result. Your care and comfort are our top priorities, and we will work with you to find a solution to your concerns.

Ready to learn more about implant dentures? Talk to us today to see if this treatment is right for you.

What Is a Smile Facelift?

We use a number of different terms to refer to our customised procedures, including Smile Makeover, full mouth reconstruction, and Smile Facelift. Each treatment is designed to achieve a specific set of goals, and the right one for you will vary based on your unique characteristics and desired outcome. During your initial consultation, our team can help you determine if one of these procedures is right for you.

A Smile Facelift is a treatment that can rejuvenate a patient’s appearance without the need for cosmetic injectables. In addition to enhancing the look of the smile, a Smile Facelift can also revitalize the face by addressing underlying issues within the oral structures. The primary technique used in a Smile Facelift is the placement of porcelain dental veneers. This method can improve a wide range of dental concerns, including staining, gaps, chips, discolouration, asymmetry, and more. Veneers can also be used to add length and fullness to the teeth, helping to compensate for changes in facial volume that occur with the natural process of aging.

If this procedure sounds like something that could help you obtain your goals, talk to us today to schedule a consultation.

Do I Need a Full Mouth Reconstruction?

It can be hard to tell which dental treatment is right for you—not every concern is easily diagnosable by the average person (in fact, most are not). And sometimes you arrive at the dentist to discover one treatment is not enough to achieve your desired outcome. If you have two or more conditions you would like to address, full mouth reconstruction may be right for you. While the name can make the procedure sound like a major overhaul, in many cases it simply means combining two or more techniques to optimize the health, function, and beauty of an individual’s oral structures.

Full mouth reconstruction can be as uncomplicated as repairing cavities and treating minor gum disease. The treatment plan can also be more complex, involving dental implants, oral surgery, and orthodontics. Each procedure is customised to suit the needs and goals of the patient, and we will walk you through every stage of the plan so you can feel as comfortable and confident about the process as possible. Our extensively trained dentists are experienced in a wide array of advanced techniques, and we will never push you to accept a treatment you do not need. What we can do is help you identify which approaches will restore your smile and offer improved oral health.

Our team is friendly, knowledgeable, and happy to offer pressure-free advice about your smile. Let’s talk.

What to Expect During Full Mouth Reconstruction

If you have more than one dental concern you would like to address, full mouth reconstruction can be an excellent way to restore your smile to full health and beauty. At The Paddington Dental Surgery, we make every effort to ensure the restoration process is as comfortable as possible while providing exceptional results. To help you prepare for your treatment plan, our dentists would like you to know what to expect.

The first step of any procedure, especially a full mouth reconstruction, is the consultation. During this meeting, we will discuss your concerns, evaluate your oral structures, and assist you in deciding which treatments can optimise your results. In most cases, your program will require multiple visits, and we may be able to begin the same day as your consultation. At this initial meeting, we will go over how many visits you can expect as well as a general timeframe for completing treatment. If you have any questions at that time or between visits, we encourage you to voice them so we can help.

If you are nervous about dental treatment, we offer sedation dentistry techniques. We understand anxiety is very common, and we will work with you to put you at ease and complete the procedure as quickly and as safely as possible.

For more information, talk to our team. We are here to help you achieve the smile you’ve always wanted in a welcoming and compassionate environment.

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