Have you been pondering ways brightening your smile and wondering about dental implants. Here is a little bit more about them:
So, what is a dental implant?
Dental implants can be thought of as titanium screws that are placed into the jawbone and act as a support for an artificial tooth crown, bridge or denture.
In most cases they are an excellent treatment option to replace one or more missing teeth and are an alternative to dentures or conventional bridges.
Advantages of dental implants
- They look and feel very similar to your own teeth.
- They are cared for in a similar way to natural teeth.
- Treatment does not involve or affect the teeth next door to the dental implant. This is of benefit when those teeth have not undergone past dental treatment.
- Can be an answer to loose or floppy dentures
Disadvantages of dental implants
- The dental implant procedure cannot always be completed within one appointment. Waiting for the actual implant to fuse with your jawbone can take a certain amount of time. During this time, a temporary tooth will be placed over the area.
- Implants require a certain volume and density of bone. Many patients require additional bone augmentation. Fortunately, bone augmentation techniques have become less invasive and less painful in recent years. Occasionally some patients are not suitable.
- Dental implants are a surgical procedure and although it is considered safe, complications cannot be ruled out. Risks include infection, nerve injuries or bleeding. Factors such as poor hygiene and smoking can increase your risks of infections.
Am I eligible for a dental implant?
Not everyone can get a dental implant. Your dentist will be able to assess whether this treatment is right for you. One of the most important factors to assess is whether there is enough bone present for an implant to be placed in the area. Dental X-rays will be taken to help your dentist or dental specialist to assess this. This will commonly include a 3D x-ray.
Some medical conditions and medications can impact on whether someone is suitable for a dental implant. Therefore, it is important to let your dentist know your medical conditions and medication, including vitamins and supplements bought from pharmacies and supermarkets. Patients with active severe gum disease or who are cigarette smokers are not ideal candidates for this treatment.
Alternative treatment options
Dental implants are used to replace missing teeth. Alternative treatment options to replace one or missing teeth include dentures or dental bridges. Each treatment has advantages and disadvantages and your dentist can discuss these thoroughly with you.
Implants at Queensland Country Dental
If you are located in Townsville or it’s surrounds the entire implant process: from planning to surgery to final restoration, is now conveniently available at Queensland Country Dental in Aitkenvale. To find out more about this service please call the Townsville team on 4425 3825.
Queensland Country Health Fund Benefits
As always our team are here to help and discuss if your cover pays benefits towards dental implants. Please contact our Contact Centre on 1800 813 415.
Sources: image www.hanover-dental.com/implants, information www.teeth.org.au/dental-implants.