Dentistry isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, but sometimes it’s necessary. There are lots of reasons why someone might need to see a dentist, and a common reason is to get a dental implant.

Dental implants are the solution for many dental problems. If you want to know more about what dental implants are, what they are used for and what the procedure entails, keep reading to learn everything you need to know.

Dental implants are used to replace missing teeth or to support a false tooth, such as bridge, crown or denture. A dental implant is a titanium screw that is placed into the jawbone and acts as a replacement root.

How long do dental implants last?

One of the main reasons dental implants are so popular is because they last for so long. Most dental implants last for 5 years, but with careful maintenance, they can last for decades.

To maximise the life of a dental implant it is recommended to maintain a high standard or oral hygiene at all times, which means brushing twice daily, flossing regularly and visiting the dentist for regular checkups and professional cleaning. It is also highly recommended for smokers to quit smoking.

Dental implants offer many advantages, namely that they are convenient, reliable and efficient. Dental implants are a suitable solution for anyone who has lost one or more teeth. They offer both cosmetic and functional benefits, both restoring the patients smile and allowing them to bite and chew properly. Dental implants are only suitable people 18 years and older as it’s important for a person’s bone tissue to be fully developed.

Some benefits of dental implants in Central Coast are listed below.

● Dental implants are a great substitute for removable dentures.

● Dental implants can replace a lost tooth and simultaneously protect the bone and gum tissues.

● Dental implants are long lasting - most can last for 30 years - and they do not decay

● Dental implants can prevent false teeth from moving.

● Dental implants are very strong, meaning that biting force can be distributed evenly in the mouth so that no existing teeth take the burden and become damaged.

The dental implant procedure involves thorough examination and preparation. First of all, you should visit your dentist who will examine the condition of your mouth. He or she will take radiographs to carefully assess the structure of the mouth and any issues that could affect the procedure (e.g. bone tissue, sinuses, nerves). Then, he or she will be able to plan the implant procedure and how exactly the implant will be positioned.

Dental implant surgery involves making a small incision through the gum to the bone to create a space where the implant will go. The implant is then fitted into the gap and then secured with a healing cap for 3-6 months before it’s fitted with a more permanent attachment. 

In some cases, there may be the second stage of surgery required to increase the effectiveness of the implant, which involves a bone graft of bone regeneration. People may require a bone graft if they have had missing teeth for a long time, are suffering bone loss from periodontal disease or are the victim of severe dental injury.

There will then be a 6-week healing process where your gums must heal before the dentist can take a new impression of your mouth in order to construct a crown or bridge that fits your mouth perfectly. They will ensure the appearance and finish looks natural, that the teeth feel comfortable when closed in a bite and, most importantly, that they are functioning as they should.

No dental procedure is pleasant, but if you require urgent dental assistance because you have a missing tooth, dental implants are a great option. They are more reliable and durable than other tooth replacements, they prevent bite collapse and they allow you to chew and speak normally. With a dental implant, you will have a good quality of life and restore confidence in your smile.