Do you want to bite into a fresh, juicy apple with no distress or do you have any missing teeth? Dental implants may be an option to restore full function and beauty to your smile.

At Fanelli Dental, the complete dental implant process is completed in-house at our Gladstone dental practice using keyhole-type surgery to minimise discomfort and promote faster healing times.

Dr Remo Fanelli has extensive training in the placement and restoration of dental implants, ensuring our patients achieve exceptional results.

What are dental implants?

Implants are a two-part system that consists of a biocompatible, artificial ‘root’ and a ‘tooth’ anchored on top of it. The implant itself serves as the root, which permanently integrates into the jawbone and supports the surrounding bone tissues.

Otherwise, most people experience bone shrinkage after a tooth is lost. After the implant is completely integrated, we can anchor a crown or other fixed restoration on top of it.

Implants can also work in pairs to support multi-tooth restorations. They’re unique in that they are one of the only tooth replacements that do not rely on adjacent teeth for stability.

Dental implants usually have three distinct parts:

• Dental implant screw: An artificial device that serves as a type of root for artificial teeth.
• Custom abutment: A small attachment to secure the dental implant and crown together
• Crown: the visible part of the implant that looks like a natural tooth.

Types of Dental Implants

There are three common types of dental implants that are available, all of which are dependent on your individual needs and the existing health of your remaining teeth and gums.

Single and Multiple Implants

Dental implants are titanium screws that serve as replacements for missing tooth roots. They are directly inserted into the jawbone, which allows the implant to fuse with the bone around it, making it secure. Once it has healed, a replacement tooth, called a crown, which matches the rest of your natural teeth, can be placed on top of the implant.

The implant treatment usually takes 4-9 months, depending on whether any preparatory work is required. This time is necessary for the implant to fuse with the jawbone, which keeps it in place.

Multiple implants are also possible, but if you have several missing teeth in a row, you may require an alternative solution such as an implant-supported bridge or denture.

Implant Supported Bridges

Implant-supported bridges, which are an alternative to traditional bridges or individual implants, are recommended for restoring multiple missing or failing teeth in a row. Unlike traditional bridges, which consist of a replacement tooth or teeth anchored to your existing teeth on either side of the gap, implant-supported bridges require implants to be placed into the jawbone. Once the implants have fused with the bone, abutment posts are attached to the implant. After a healing period, the bridge is placed on top of the implants, securing the solution in place.

This treatment usually takes 4-5 months but varies from one person to another. You may need some supporting treatment done before you have an implant-supported bridge, such as a bone graft. If this is needed, your treatment may take longer, possibly between 6-8 months.

Implant-Retained Dentures

Implant-retained dentures, also known as implant-supported or 'clip-in' dentures, are replacement teeth attached to dental implants on an acrylic base. They are recommended for individuals with few natural teeth left, but enough bone to support implants. The dentures are fitted with a bar that clips onto the implants, making them more secure than standard removable dentures but can still be taken out for cleaning or even sleeping (useful if you suffer from teeth grinding in your sleep). This means they’re less likely to move around in your mouth and there’s less risk of them falling out when you talk or laugh.

The treatment time for implant-retained dentures usually takes four to seven months but may vary depending on individual needs. After the implants are placed and have healed, a temporary denture or existing dentures in good condition can be worn while waiting for the final dentures to be placed.

What to expect during an dental implant procedure?

Dental implants require several phases of treatment.

• Evaluation and planning
• Surgery
• Healing and integration
• Restoration

Precise planning is an essential aspect of dental implant treatment. Using 3-D cone beam technology, we identify the ideal location with adequate bone support to place the dental implant for the highest success rate.

While dental implants require surgical placement, we prioritise patient comfort at every phase of treatment. Many patients liken the experience to having a large filling. Implant placement does not require sedation and takes only about one hour.

Your surgical site will heal quickly, and patients report minimal discomfort. We allow time for the dental implant to integrate with the jawbone before placing a final dental implant crown. This process takes about three to four months to complete.

The restoration phase requires a custom dental implant crown, which will match your natural teeth perfectly.

How long is the recovery time?

Each procedure that you undergo for your dental implants will take between 30 minutes and a few hours. After surgery, it's common to experience some swelling, bruising, or minor pain. Your dentist will prescribe antibiotics before surgery to ward off infection.

Depending on the complexity of your case, you may have to take some time off work to recover. You may also need pain medication to help ease your discomfort. Depending on the type of implant you receive, your jawbone and gums will heal fully within a couple of months.

Why is a dental implant a good choice?

If you permanently lose a tooth, it can cause further deterioration of your oral health. For example, tooth loss leads to loss of bone in the jaw, which may cause the face to look sunken. Additionally, getting a dental implant replacement will help you to continue eating as normal, and it will fill any gaps in your smile.

This is why it’s a good idea to have a dental implant.

Dental implants feature a number of advantages over fixed dental bridges and partial dentures.

• Advanced aesthetics – dental implants look like natural teeth
• Improved function – acts as a natural tooth for eating, speech and comfort
• Durable – high success rates and able to support a high functional load
• Conservative – reduces the need to involve healthy teeth
• Bone integrity – the implant promotes healthy bone regeneration

Dental implants offer exceptional convenience, as well. Caring for single dental implants require the same hygiene protocol as natural teeth.

Speak to a dentist about dental implants

If you are missing one or more teeth or your lower denture doesn't fit properly, dental implants may be a good option for you. However, only a qualified dental professional can make that determination. Your health, and the condition of your teeth, gums, and jawbone all play a part in the decision process.

If you think that dental implants may be the right option for you, or if you want to learn more about them, please contact us to schedule an appointment. Our friendly, professional staff will answer all of your questions and address any concerns that you have about the procedure.