Different Types of Dental Implants & How They Work

There are different types of dental implants tailored to meet varying dental needs, depending on your oral health, bone density and extent of work required.

Endosteal Implants

The most commonly used type of dental implant, Endosteal implants are ideal for patients with healthy jawbones. These implants are placed directly into the jawbone. 

Subperiosteal Implants

Subperiosteal dental implants sit on top of the jawbone, beneath the gum tissue. They are used when there isn’t enough healthy bone for Endosteal implants.

Zygomatic Implants

Zygomatic implants are much less common and are anchored into the cheekbone rather than the jaw. They are typically reserved for severe cases involving significant jawbone loss.

Your dentist will assess your overall health, jawbone density, and treatment needs to recommend the best dental implant option for you.

Step-by-Step Dental Implant Procedure

The dental implant procedure occurs in stages over several months. While the exact steps and timelines may vary based on your dentist and treatment plan, each stage is crucial to ensure a successful outcome. Here’s a general overview of what to expect.

Step 1: Initial Consultation and Treatment Planning

Your dentist will begin with a dental evaluation through X-rays or 3D scans to assess your teeth, gums, and jawbone. They’ll check your oral health and determine the thickness and density of your jawbone. Be prepared to share your medical and any concerns, so your dentist can develop a personalised treatment plan that may include additional steps if necessary.

Step 2: Tooth Extraction (If Needed)

If you have a damaged or decayed tooth, it will need to be removed. This straightforward procedure is typically done under local anaesthetic. After dental extraction, your gums will need a few weeks to heal before proceeding to the next step. 

Step 3: Bone Grafting (If Needed)

If there’s insufficient bone to support the dental implant, bone grafting will be required. A small amount of bone material, either from your own body or synthetic, will be placed in the implant area. Healing can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the extent of the graft. Once bone has integrated, you’re ready for the next phase.

Step 4: Placing the Dental Implant

Under local anaesthetic (or sedation/sleep dentistry), your dentist will make a small incision in your gum and insert a titanium post into the jaw bone. The gum is sutured closed, and the healing process begins. Over the next few months, the implant fuses with your jawbone in a process called osseointegration, creating a solid foundation for your new tooth.

Step 5: Abutment Placement

When the dental implant has fused with the bone, a small connector piece called an abutment is attached to the implant under local anaesthetic. The abutment sits just above the gun line and will support the crown. 

Step 6: Attaching the Dental Crown

After your gum is fully healed, your custom-made crown is attached to the abutment. The crown is designed to match the shape and colour of your natural teeth, giving you a fully functional and natural-looking tooth that blends seamlessly with your smile.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants offer several advantages over traditional tooth replacement options like bridges or dentures. 

Seamless

Dental implants look and feel completely natural. Anchored securely into your jaw bone, they are designed to blend seamlessly with your smile and function just like a real tooth.

Long-term

With proper care, dental implants can last decades, or even a lifetime. Unlike bridges or dentures, which may need replacing every 5-10 years, implants are built to last.

Functional

Dental implants restore your ability to chew comfortably, allowing you to eat without discomfort. They also stay securely in place, unlike dentures, which can slip or click. With implants, you’ll quickly forget they’re even there.

Healthy Bone

When a tooth is lost, the surrounding bone can begin to shrink over time. Implants stimulate bone growth, helping to maintain bone density and facial structure.

Stability

Missing teeth can cause neighbouring teeth to shift out of place, leading to misalignment or bite issues. Implants fill the gap, preventing teeth from shifting and keeping your smile stable.

Recovery and Aftercare

The dental implant procedure occurs in stages, allowing for manageable recovery at each step. 

After bone grafting (if required)

Recovery at the site of a bone graft can take several weeks to a few months as the grafting material fully integrates before proceeding to the implant stage.

After implant placement 

You may experience mild swelling, bruising and discomfort for a few days. While you can return to normal activities within 1-2 days, full healing and osseointegration will take about 3 to 6 months.

After abutment placement

Healing typically takes 1-2 weeks, with minor gum sensitivity during this time. 

After crown placement

There is usually no extended healing time, except for some slight gum sensitivity or pressure for a day or two. 

Aftercare Tips

To manage post-procedural discomfort or swelling, over-the-counter pain relief and dental ice packs can be helpful. Your dentist may also prescribe medication, Avoid crunchy, hard or sticky foods and brush gently, taking care to avoid the surgical site for the first week. Rinsing with salt water or a recommended mouthwash will help prevent infection. It’s important to avoid smoking during recovery, as it can slow healing and increase the risk of implant failure. Be sure to attend all scheduled check-ups so your dentist can monitor your healing, check for signs of infection and ensure proper implant integration. Once the crown is in place, ongoing dental check-ups are essential to maintain your implant for the long term.

Potential Risks and Complications

Dental implants are highly successful treatments, but like any surgical procedure, there are some risks to consider. Common complications include infection at the implant site, implant failure, nerve damage, and gum or bone recession. The good news is that most of these risks can be minimised or avoided by choosing a skilled and experienced dentist, undergoing a thorough consultation and planning process, following post-surgery care instructions, and attending regular follow-up appointments.

Cost Considerations for Dental Implants

In Australia, the cost of a single dental implant ranges from $4000 to $6,500. This includes the implant, abutment and crown. However, more complex cases requiring additional procedures or multiple implants will increase the cost of treatment. 

Some private health funds may cover part of the cost, especially if you have dental or extras cover. Many dental clinics also offer interest-free or extended payment plans to help spread the cost over time. If you’re unsure, it doesn’t hurt to ask. By booking a consultation you’ll receive a personalised quote based on your needs, and the dentist will walk you through payment options that suit your budget.

Alternative Tooth Replacement Options

Dental implants are a popular and long-lasting solution, but they’re not the only option. There are several other cosmetic dentistry treatments that may better suit your needs. 

Dental Bridges

Dental bridges are used to fill the gap left by one or more missing teeth. They are less invasive, more affordable and restore function and appearance. However they’re lifespan is shorter and doesn’t prevent bone loss in the jaw.

Traditional Dentures

Dentures are a removal teeth-like tray used to replace multiple missing teeth. They are cost effective and non invasive, yet can feel uncomfortable over time, may affect your speech and eating, and are prone to clicking and slipping.

Implant-Supported Dentures

A combination of implant stability to anchor a full or partial denture. This provides a more secure and comfortable alternative to traditional dentures, helps preserve jawbone, and improves chewing function. However the implant component increases cost and requires minor surgery.

If you’re not sure which option is right for you, your dentist will guide you based on your goals, lifestyle, oral health needs, and budget.

Who Is a Suitable Candidate for Dental Implants?

Several factors determine whether someone is suitable for dental implants. 

Good oral health

You should have healthy teeth and gums. Oral health plays a critical role in the success of dental implants. If you have untreated gum disease or poor oral hygiene, these conditions can interfere with the healing process.

Sufficient Jawbone Density

You need enough jawbone thickness and density to support the implant. If the bone is too thin or weak, it may not provide the necessary structure for the implant. In some cases, bone grafting can be done to build up the bone, but this may not be possible in every case.

Non Smoker

Smoking can impede healing and increase the risk of implant failure due to reduced blood flow and slower tissue healing. If you don’t think you can give up smoking during the healing stages of the procedure, dental implants might not be the right fit for you. 

Ready to Restore Your Smile with Dental Implants?

Dental implants provide a durable, long-lasting and natural-looking solution for replacing missing teeth and restoring both function and confidence. Before moving forward, however, it’s important to explore your options and consult with a dental professional to ensure you get the best outcome for your needs. At Cronulla Beach Dental, we are committed to sharing as much information as possible to help you make an informed treatment decision. We invite you to learn more about our dental implant procedure, including payment options and the expertise of our experienced clinical team.