Dental Implant

Dental Implant

Tooth Replacement With
Dental Implants in Melbourne

When a tooth is missing, everyday tasks such as chewing and speaking can feel different, and the gap left behind may affect surrounding teeth over time. Many patients explore options that can provide a stable replacement and that also appears and feels natural. At Dentists of Ivanhoe, we offer dental implant treatment in Melbourne and assess whether this approach may be suitable based on your oral health and goals.

What is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a solution for replacing missing teeth, offering a strong and stable foundation for a new tooth that will look, feel and function just like your natural teeth. With dental implants in Ivanhoe, you can experience improved speech, and comfort to eat your favourite foods with ease. Made of biocompatible materials, such as titanium, dental implants are surgically placed into your jawbone to provide a secure and long term base for your replacement tooth when suitable.

Whether you have lost one or several teeth, dental implants offer a fixed solution for restoring your oral health. Patients exploring affordable dental implants in Melbourne may find dental implants to be an option that they can discuss with their dentist depending on their goals and clinical suitability.

Types of Dental Implants

There are several types of dental implants available to suit different treatment needs and preferences. Each type is designed to provide a stable foundation for your replacement tooth or teeth and may help restore appearance and function.

Tick

Single Dental Implants

Are used to replace a single missing tooth. The procedure involves placing a single titanium post into the jawbone to support a custom-made replacement tooth. This option may be suitable for individuals who only need to replace one missing tooth. Contact our team to find out about single tooth implant costs and how you can book your consultation.

Tick

Multiple dental implants

Involves placing two or more titanium posts into the jawbone to support a bridge or a denture, depending on the number of missing teeth. Multiple dental implants may be recommended for patients looking to replace several teeth in one area or across the mouth. This approach may offer a secure and functional alternative to traditional removable options.

The most suitable type of dental implants in Melbourne, Australia, will vary for each individual and depend on factors such as oral health, bone support and desired treatment outcomes. Your dentist can assess your specific needs and recommend the option that may be most appropriate for your situation.

Benefits of Dental Implants​

Dental implants can offer several functional and aesthetic advantages when they are suitable for a patient’s situation. Some of the benefits may include:

Improved chewing and comfort +
Implants can help restore chewing efficiency compared to some removable alternatives, which may make everyday eating feel more stable and comfortable, particularly when replacing back teeth that support heavier forces.
A fixed and secure replacement option +
Once fully integrated, implants act as a fixed solution that does not need daily removal or adhesives. For some people, this may provide a more familiar and convenient day-to-day experience.
Support for neighbouring teeth +
When a tooth is missing, surrounding teeth may drift into the space over time. Replacing a tooth with an implant can help maintain alignment and spacing, which may support bite function.
Helping maintain jawbone volume +
After a tooth is lost, the jawbone in that area can gradually shrink due to lack of stimulation. Because implants transmit chewing pressure into the bone, they may help slow this process compared to leaving a space or relying on some removable alternatives.
Natural-looking appearance +
The final implant crown or bridge can be designed to blend with the shade, shape and size of your existing teeth, supporting a result that appears natural within the smile during everyday speaking, chewing and social interaction.
Part of your regular oral hygiene routine +
Implants are brushed and flossed like natural teeth, which some patients may find simpler to manage than removable options that require specialised cleaning routines.

As with any treatment, outcomes vary between individuals. Factors such as bone density, gum health, general medical history, smoking, clenching or grinding habits, and home care can influence how implants perform over time. During your consultation, your dentist can discuss whether implants may be appropriate for your situation and what results you can realistically expect.

SMILE Gallery

Am I a suitable candidate for Dental Implants?

Dental implants can be a versatile solution for a range of oral health problems. They are designed to replace missing teeth, restore oral function, and improve the appearance of your smile. Some of the issues that dental implants can help resolve include:

Missing teeth

Whether you have lost a single tooth or multiple teeth, dental implants can provide a fixed, natural-looking solution that can enhance the appearance of your smile and improve your oral function.

Loose or ill-fitting dentures

If you are tired of struggling with loose or ill-fitting dentures, dental implants can provide a more stable and secure solution. With dental implants, you can enjoy improved comfort, knowing that your denture will not slip or move.

Shifting or crowding of remaining teeth

When you lose a tooth, the remaining teeth can shift or become crowded, leading to further oral health problems. Dental implants can help prevent this from happening by maintaining the natural contours of your jawbone and keeping surrounding teeth in place.

Bone loss

Dental implants can help prevent bone loss by stimulating healthy jawbone growth. This can help maintain the contours of your face and prevent the facial sagging that often occurs with missing teeth.

Suitable candidates for dental implants are individuals who are in good general and oral health, have enough healthy jawbones to support the implant, and are committed to maintaining good oral hygiene. If you are considering dental implants, a consultation with your dentist can help determine if this is the right solution for you.

Our Procedure

1. INITIAL CONSULTATION WITH CBCT SCAN (30MINS)

During this initial consultation, you will meet with a dental professional to discuss your oral health goals. A CBCT (Cone Beam Computed Tomography) scan may be taken to provide a detailed 3D image of your jaw, teeth, and surrounding bones. This can help determine the best course of action for your dental implant procedure and ensure it will be successful.

2. 1ST STAGE IMPLANT PLACEMENT PROCEDURE WITH/WITHOUT BONE GRAFT (60-90 MINS)

The first stage of the implant placement procedure is the surgical placement of the implant into the jawbone. In some cases, a bone graft may be required if there is not enough bone to support the implant. You may be given local anaesthesia to ensure a comfortable experience.

3. Review after 3-6 months of healing (20mins)

After the implant has been placed, you will need to wait for 3 to 6 months for the implant to fully heal and fuse with the jawbone. During this time, your dentist will monitor the healing process and review the progress.

4. 2ND STAGE IMPLANT PROCEDURE (40MINS)

The second stage of the procedure involves the placement of a healing abutment.

5. Digital scan for implant crown (30mins)

Before the final crown can be placed, a digital scan will be taken to ensure a precise fit and aesthetic appearance.

6. FINAL CROWN (ARTIFICIAL TOOTH) PLACEMENT (30MINS)

The final step involves the placement of the crown, and you leave with a restored and functional smile.

Recovery and Aftercare for Dental Implants

After implant surgery, it’s normal to experience temporary swelling, bruising or mild discomfort around the treated area. These symptoms usually improve over several days as healing progresses. Your dentist may provide advice on pain relief, diet and hygiene during the early stages of recovery.

Here are some common aftercare recommendations that may help support healing:

Eat softer foods initially: Avoid chewing directly on the implant site for the first few days and gradually reintroduce firmer foods once comfortable and advised.

Dental implants are a fantastic solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring oral health, function, and confidence.

Whether you need one or multiple missing teeth replacements, dental implants offer a strong, stable, and natural-looking solution that will enhance your smile and improve your quality of life. At Dentists of Ivanhoe, our experienced and skilled dental team is dedicated to providing you with the highest quality of care and the best possible dental implants in Ivanhoe and nearby suburbs Preston, Thornbury , Heidelberg,
Alphington for your individual needs and goals. So why wait? Book your appointment today and take the first step towards a lifetime of a confident smile.

FAQ’s

Here are some frequently asked questions to get to know us better.
There are three main steps in the dental implant process, and may take months from the first to the last step. After x-rays have been taken and a mould is made of your teeth, surgery begins. Your jaw may need bone grafting in order to place the implant, which is an additional step. After your gums have closed over the top and healed, the implant is then uncovered and an extension post is placed. Osseointegration occurs when the implant combines with your jaw bone. After that process, it will be time to place the artificial tooth/teeth.

In many cases, a temporary tooth or denture can be provided during healing. The most suitable option depends on the position of the tooth, your bite and your treatment plan. Your dentist will explain what to expect at each stage.

Once restored, implants may feel secure during chewing and speaking. Although they do not contain nerves like natural teeth, they are designed to function similarly within your bite. Adjustments can be made if needed.

Yes, some patients who wear full or partial dentures may be suitable for implant-supported solutions. Options range from implants used to stabilise a denture to fixed bridges supported by implants. An assessment is required to determine suitability.

Healing times can vary from person to person and may depend on factors such as general health, bone density, and whether additional procedures like bone grafting were required. In many cases, the implant may need several months to integrate with the jawbone before the final restoration is placed. Your dentist can provide an estimated timeframe based on your individual situation and will review progress at scheduled appointments.

Treat your dental implant as your natural teeth: brush and floss twice a day, as well as use mouthwash to eliminate bacteria that may build up around your implant/s. Avoid tobacco. Visit your dentist for a regular check-up twice a year.

Not all patients are suitable candidates for implants. Factors such as certain medical conditions, medications, smoking habits or insufficient bone may influence whether implants are recommended. Your dentist will assess your suitability during a consultation.

As with any surgical treatment, potential risks may include infection, delayed healing, damage to surrounding teeth or structures, or the implant not integrating as expected. Longer-term concerns can include gum inflammation or bone loss around the implant. Your dentist will discuss risks before treatment and explain signs to monitor.

Your dental implants’ Melbourne prices can vary based on the number of implants required, whether bone grafting is needed, and the type of restoration placed. A personalised treatment plan and cost estimate will be provided after your consultation so you can review the details before deciding to proceed.

Dental implants may not integrate or heal as expected in some situations. This can occur for reasons such as infection, limited bone support, smoking, or pressure being applied to the implant during the healing period. If this happens, your dentist can discuss possible contributing factors and the options available to manage the situation.

Achieve a Healthy and Straighter Smile

To arrange a consultation with our dentists in Ivanhoe, or for any enquiries, please call our clinic today.