Dental implants are a permanent replacement for missing teeth. They involve placing an inert titanium fixture to replace a missing tooth (or teeth). This fixture will act as an artificial root as it integrates with the surrounding bone and becomes firmly fixed into place. Implant fixtures can then be used to support crowns and bridges that mimic the appearance and function of natural teeth.
Who places implants?
It is extremely important that implants are planned in great detail and placed WELL. Inaccuracies in planning or placement of implant fixtures can lead to failures and significant damage to the adjacent teeth, nerves and other areas. Worse still, implants that are placed in non-ideal positions are extremely difficult to remove and may be left in place, creating long-term problems.
At Dentists of Alphington, we believe strongly that implant fixtures should be placed by a specialist that is formally qualified to do so. Most of our implants are placed on-site at our practice with an experienced, well-respected periodontist, a dental specialist that has undergone extensive post-graduate training in the placement of implants. We also refer to external periodontists and oral maxillofacial surgeons and have good relationships with the local specialist community. These specialists will not usually restore implants with the overlying crowns or bridges and this is usually also completed by an experienced general dentist.
Implants at our practice
At Dentists of Alphington, we believe that our team has a unique set of skills when it comes to getting great results with implants. An initial consult and treatment planning is usually completed with an experienced general dentist to make sure that an implant is the right option for you. The dentist and periodontist will collaborate through the planning phase, the fixture placement and placement of the overlying restoration to ensure the best possible result.
We believe that having an implant specialist as a valued member of our staff gives us a unique advantage in providing our patients with the best expertise with an integrated environment for planning, all in the one location.
What we do better
The importance of completing treatment to a high standard with dental implants can not be overstated. Failing to plan or place implant fixtures in ideal positions can have significant long-term consequences.
There are two elements to successful implant treatment - placement of the implant fixture and placement of the overlying crown (or bridge or denture). The expertise required to do this properly is not found at every dentist.
The following is a summary of the advantages of implants at our practice:
Planning and initial consultation is done with an experienced general dentist to make sure that we develop the right plan for you
Implant fixtures are placed with a specialist periodontist who has many years of experience and additional training
We only use the best implant components with a long history of proven clinical success
Implant restorations (crowns) are made using a very high quality Australian dental laboratory and designed specifically for your situation
In most cases, all treatment and consultation can be completed in one location
We provide long term follow-up, maintenance and support
We provide a very reasonable cost structure
Any questions? Contact us to discuss if dental implants might be an appropriate solution for you and to arrange a consultation.