What are dental implants?
The implant itself is a small and screw-like titanium fixture. This titanium implant will be surgically inserted into the jaw bone, where it will then take on the role of an anchor within the mouth, which is then used to hold permanent teeth in position. The most important part of the dental implant process happens in-between the insertion of your implant and the installation of your prosthetics. During this time the bio-compatible titanium implant will integrate with your jawbone, which is what creates the permanent base of your new tooth.
Dr Rosenberg currently uses Southern Implants and Ankylos Implants. He is also a member of The Australian Osseo Integration Society.
Crowns, a bridge, or a stabilised denture may then be attached to the Implant. Since these must be carefully constructed to match the opposing tooth and ensure a correct bite, several impressions of the teeth are taken and sent to a lab which will construct the prosthetics. This ensures that the size and shape of any prosthetics matches the natural architecture of your smile, fitting cohesively with the rest of your teeth.
What are the benefits of dental implants?
Replacing your missing teeth will not only benefit your facial appearance but also your oral and general well-being. Dental Implants provide amazing stability for patients, aiding with biting pressure as well as reducing irritation and oral sores generally experienced by denture wearers. Once a missing tooth is replaced you will be able to eat and speak as you did previously — things that people often take for granted until their natural teeth are lost.
Who is a viable dental implant candidate?
Dental Implants may be an option for anyone who has experienced tooth loss. The only specific requirement for dental implant treatment is that the patient has enough bone in the area of the missing tooth / teeth to anchor the Implant. If this is not the case, bone grafts may be placed.
Risk Disclaimer
Like any surgery, dental implant surgery can poses some health risks including:
- Infection at the implant site
- Nerve damage which can cause pain, numbness, tingling and loss of feeling in teeth, gums, cheeks, lips, chin, tongue
- Injury or damage to the surrounding structures
- Implants placed in the upper jaw may protrude into the sinus cavity causing sinus issues
- Excessive bleeding