Dental Implant

A dental implant is placed under local anaesthetic, so you should feel pressure rather than pain during the procedure. Tenderness and swelling for a few days afterwards are common and can usually be managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Your dentist will explain what to expect and give you aftercare instructions before you go home.

From placing the implant to fitting the final crown usually takes a few months, to give the bone time to heal around the implant. Bone grafting or extractions beforehand can add time. Toorak Village Dental Care will give you an estimated timeline and an itemised quote at your consultation.

Often, yes, but the jawbone can shrink after a tooth is lost. A 3D scan shows how much bone is available and whether grafting may be needed.

It depends on your level of cover. Many extras policies with major dental include some cover for implants, often after a waiting period, while Medicare doesn't usually cover adult dental implants. Toorak Village Dental Care can give you the item numbers for your treatment so you can check with your fund before you start. Read more: Using private health insurance for dental care.

Age alone doesn't rule out implants. What matters more is your general health, the amount of bone available and whether you can look after the implant. We'll assess this at your consultation.

Yes. Most implants bond well with the jawbone, but some don't, or develop problems later because of infection, gum disease, smoking or heavy biting forces. If an implant fails, it may be possible to replace it once the area heals. Your dentist will talk through your own risk factors before you decide on treatment.

Not every gap needs to be filled. However, nearby teeth can tilt or drift into the space, the opposing tooth can over-erupt and the bone can shrink over time. We'll explain whether replacing the tooth is likely to help in your case.

Not every missing tooth needs its own implant. In some cases, two implants can support a bridge that replaces three or more teeth. The number depends on the gap, your bone and your bite, and we'll explain the options after your scans.

For back teeth, many people choose to wait without a temporary tooth. In a visible area, we can discuss temporary options, such as a removable plate, so you're not left with a gap while the implant heals.

Gum disease needs to be treated and under control before an implant is placed, because it can affect the gum and bone around the implant. We'll assess your gums and explain the steps involved.

Brush the implant crown like a natural tooth and clean around it at the gum line each day with floss or an interdental brush. We'll show you the right technique and recommend the right size brush for you.