Dental Implants

What Are the Benefits of Dental Implants?

We often talk about how dental implants are considered the “gold standard” for missing teeth replacement, but what does that mean? Dental implants are designed to mimic the look and function of natural teeth, which means they can provide many of the same benefits as your natural teeth. Our extensively trained dentists can determine if this approach is right for your needs during an initial consultation, but if the following advantages sound like they might help your smile, talk to us today:

Dental Implants offer:

  • Permanent replacement of missing or seriously damaged teeth
  • Easy maintenance—same care as your natural teeth
  • Slip-free placement – no sliding or movement in the mouth
  • Treatment that will not affect surrounding healthy teeth
  • Preservation of gum and bone against decay and depletion
  • A natural look and feel

Bothered by missing teeth? We can evaluate your needs, discuss your goals, and review your options. Dental implants can be an excellent method of treatment, and we also offer a range of advanced alternative procedures. Call us today to find out more.

Dental Implants Vs. Fixed Dental Bridges

Teeth can be lost for a number of reasons. But regardless of the cause, it’s important for your dental and oral health to address this concern. It’s also nice to restore your full, beautiful smile. At our practice, we offer a variety of innovative solutions for missing teeth, and two of the most popular are dental implants and fixed dental bridges.

Dental implants are considered the “gold standard” replacement for missing teeth. They can be an excellent option whether you’re missing one, a few, or all your teeth. They give you the freedom to eat the foods you love and smile with confidence. Implants are also natural-looking and durable. Plus, they help your jaw maintain bone density the same way as your natural teeth do.

If you’re missing one or more teeth in a row, a fixed dental bridge is another option to consider. A slightly more affordable solution in the short term, bridges use porcelain dental crowns to disguise the missing tooth or teeth. The teeth on either side of the treated area are used as “supports” for the dental crown, creating a bridge effect. Bridges may need to be replaced occasionally, so the cost could ultimately be the same or more than dental implants in the long-term. Another consideration to keep in mind is that a bridge requires our skilled dentists to modify the healthy teeth on either side of the missing tooth or teeth—a dental implant does not.

Still have questions? We can help. Talk to us today about your options and we will find a solution that works best for your needs, goals, lifestyle, and budget.

Dental Implants Vs. Fixed Dental Bridges or Traditional Dentures

Dental Implant InformationNo two smiles are the same, which is why our state-of-the-art practice offers a comprehensive selection of restorative treatment options. In the event one or more teeth are missing, you can choose to replace them using dental implants, fixed dental bridges, or traditional dentures. So, what makes one method preferable over another? The right option for you will hinge on several factors. Our experienced dental team customises every treatment plan to suit your unique needs and goals.

If one or more teeth are missing in a row, dental implants or a fixed (cemented) dental bridge can provide an effective replacement option. Dental implants are the more popular option, in general, due in part to their durability. Additionally, bridges could present a higher cost over time, as they may need to be replaced more often. Another benefit is that dental implants preserve the surrounding natural teeth. With a bridge, the teeth located on either side of the missing teeth will have to be modified to support the bridge.

Dental implants may be a superior restorative option compared with traditional dentures for many patients. If most or all teeth are missing, both dentures and dental implants can provide a functional replacement. However, dental implants help to preserve bone strength and mass, while dentures typically cannot. Dentures may also be uncomfortable to wear due to slipping or an imprecise fit. Additionally, dentures may not be able to achieve the same natural-looking quality for which dental implants are known.

Restoring your smile is a personal decision, and we can help guide you to the option that offers you an optimal result.

Is the Dental Implant Procedure Painful?

your smiling dentistPatients considering dental implants may be interested in how the procedure and recovery will feel. Will it hurt? Your comfort is a primary concern at The Paddington Dental Surgery, and we will endeavour to make this experience as pleasant as possible. An advanced surgical technique, dental implants require the placement of titanium posts into the bone. This helps to achieve a smile that’s highly durable and natural-looking. To minimise discomfort, we will utilize innovative pain-reduction techniques, including local anaesthetic and sedation dentistry, as best suits the individual. As a result, most patients report little to no discomfort from the procedure. Additionally, prescription and over-the-counter medication can be used to manage any disagreeable sensations that may be felt during the healing process.

We’re just as concerned with the patient experience as you are. We encourage you to ask us any questions about this procedure to help you feel comfortable about your decision.

How Are Dental Implants Placed?

dentalimplantplacementA popular and effective way to address missing teeth, dental implants offer beauty, function, and durability. If you’ve selected this procedure to restore your smile, our experienced dentists will develop a customised treatment plan that precisely places the implants to optimise your outcome. The first step of this approach will be to create a detailed surgical guide—a map of where each implant will be situated based on your anatomic indicators. The oral surgeon will then create a small hole in each implant site and place a titanium post. Depending on your needs, one or more posts may be implanted. Your comfort and care are our highest priorities, and we offer sedation dentistry techniques if you feel any dental anxiety.

After placement, the bone and implant will be allowed to fuse (called osseointegration) over the course of three to six months. During this recovery process you will have a temporary crown in place. Once the bone has healed, a permanent crown will be attached that is colour-matched to your natural teeth to achieve the most natural-looking result possible. In addition to the exceptional aesthetic and long-lasting effect, another benefit is low maintenance. Simply brush and floss regularly as you would with your natural teeth.

Dental Implants: Are They Safe?

safe dental implantsYour smile is one of your most defining features, which is likely part of the reason you’re considering dental implants. At The Paddington Dental Surgery, we understand that safety is always a primary concern with any procedure, and our skilled dentists are dedicated to your wellbeing. Dental implants can be one of the most effective and aesthetically appealing ways to address missing teeth. They typically preserve bone structure, require no extra maintenance other than regular brushing and flossing, and they eliminate the need to file down healthy teeth. Additionally, dental implants can provide long-lasting results. Still, some individuals wonder if there could be complications. Dental implants require oral surgery, and there is some measure of risk involved in any surgical technique; however, selecting an experienced and qualified dental professional to perform the operation can reduce these concerns. Furthermore, our skilled oral surgeon will assess each patient for any signs that he or she may not make an ideal candidate prior to recommending this approach.

We want to help you achieve the smile of your dreams within the safest environment possible. We will take the time to answer your questions, walk you through the steps, and guide you to a decision that best suits your needs and goals.

Are Dental Implants Right for Me?

Are Dental Implants Right for MeAt our practice, our experienced dental team often utilises dental implants and implant-supported dentures or bridges to help patients restore their smiles. Dental implants can be used to replace one, several, or all missing teeth with beautiful, natural-looking results. Although effective for a wide range of people, this restorative procedure is not for everyone. However, if you are unsatisfied with the appearance or function of your mouth, we can help.

Generally speaking, patients should be non-smokers in good overall health to receive dental implants. Additionally, adequate bone structure will be necessary to support the implants. Even if you lack sufficient bone mass, you may still be able to have dental implants. In many cases, bone grafting can be performed to build the foundation you need for this treatment. If this applies to you, we will discuss your options during your initial consultation.

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