How can we help you?
At Northside Dental Solutions, we're dedicated to providing exceptional dental care to our Clayfield community and beyond. We understand that patients often have questions about treatments, costs and what to expect during their visit. This comprehensive FAQ page addresses the most common queries we receive.
Our team believes in transparent communication and patient education. If you can't find the answer you're looking for, please don't hesitate to ring our friendly reception team. We're here to ensure you feel informed and comfortable with all aspects of your dental care journey with us.
Dental Implants
There are three main reasons why we recommend replacing a tooth after it has been extracted.
Firstly, for aesthetic purposes, especially if the gap is visible when you smile or talk. Replacing the tooth can restore the natural appearance of your smile.
Secondly, for function. If the extracted tooth was important for chewing, you might find it difficult to eat comfortably. A replacement tooth can restore your ability to chew properly and enjoy a wider variety of foods.
Thirdly, to maintain the stability of your other teeth. When a tooth is removed, the adjacent teeth can shift or drift into the empty space over time. This movement can create alignment issues, making the teeth harder to clean effectively. As a result, this can increase the long-term risk of developing other dental problems, such as decay or gum disease, in the surrounding teeth.
There are three main options for replacing a missing tooth. The first, a dental implant, is often the optimal solution. It is a fixed prosthesis that integrates with the jaw and is not removable. Oral hygiene for an implant is the same as for natural teeth.
A second option is a dental bridge. This involves a replacement tooth that is anchored to the adjacent teeth on either side of the gap. A bridge is a suitable choice if the neighbouring teeth have pre-existing restorations, such as fillings or crowns, as this avoids preparing otherwise healthy tooth structure. However, if the teeth next to the space are pristine and have no restorations, a bridge is generally not recommended as it would require cutting into healthy tooth enamel, which may lead to future complications.
The third option is a denture, which is the most cost-effective method. Unlike an implant or a bridge, a denture is removable and not fixed in the mouth. This can sometimes result in reduced stability and comfort, as it may become dislodged during functions like chewing.
Dental implants are constructed from 100% titanium. The brands used are globally recognised, which means if a dental implant is placed here, it can be maintained anywhere in the world. The primary reason for using 100% titanium is its biocompatibility. This property allows the bone to fuse directly with the implant surface, a process known as osseointegration. Unlike simply inserting a screw into wood, osseointegration creates a strong, biological bond between the implant and the jawbone. This process typically takes between three to six months to complete. Once osseointegration has successfully occurred, the implant is securely anchored in the bone and cannot be unscrewed, which ensures the long-term stability and longevity of the dental implant.
Recovery after receiving a dental implant is typically quite straightforward. In the majority of cases, the recovery period is quicker and involves less discomfort than the process of having a tooth extracted. It is expected that the area where the implant was placed will feel slightly tender for a few days following the procedure. However, after the first day, you should be able to resume your normal daily activities without significant disruption. This standard recovery timeline applies to generally healthy individuals. In situations where a patient is medically compromised or if specific post-operative instructions are necessary, the recovery process may differ. For most individuals, the experience is relatively easy and pain-free.
Dental implants are an excellent option for most healthy adults who maintain good oral hygiene, have healthy gums, and ideally don't smoke. Implants can only be placed once the jaw has finished growing, so they aren't suitable for patients under 18.
We Plan Comprehensively for Implant Dentistry
Certain lifestyle and medical factors may affect the success of your implant treatment. These include smoking, excessive alcohol consumption and conditions such as diabetes, which can impact the initial healing process and potentially reduce long-term success rates. Each patient's situation is unique, so we thoroughly assess before recommending any implant-based treatment.
The quality and density of your jawbone also play a crucial role in the success of dental implants. If you have insufficient bone tissue, don't worry—you may still be a candidate for implants. In such cases, we can perform bone grafting or augmentation procedures to create a more suitable foundation for your implant.
Contact Northside Dental Solutions for More Information
The best way to determine your candidacy for dental implants is to book a consultation with one of our dentists. You'll leave that appointment with a clear understanding of your procedure options, treatment timelines, cost, and payment options.
We look forward to helping you restore your smile!