Understanding Dental Implants | Sydney Implant Institute

Dental Implants

Welcome to an era of confident smiles and seamless oral health. Our advanced dental implant solutions offer a transformative approach to restoring missing teeth, ensuring both aesthetics and function. Crafted with precision and backed by a track record of successful procedures, our dental implantsInstitute provide a secure foundation for your smile journey.

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What are dental implants?

A dental implant is a titanium screw that is screwed into the jaw bone in the area of a missing tooth. The jaw bone then grows into the surface of the titanium forming a very strong biological bond. The implant then acts like the root of a tooth which a porcelain tooth can then can be screwed into. The discomfort and embarrassment of dentures are now a thing of the past.

Dental implants are a reliable, long-term, fixed solution for missing teeth

Implants are fixed and do not need to be removed

Unlike dentures, they do not trap food and are not a cause of embarrassment

Unlike a bridge, the teeth on either side of the gap do not need to be prepared, avoiding complications such as root canal treatment and decay

Dental implant solutions

Replacement of a single tooth

Complete your smile and replace a broken or missing tooth with an aesthetic, natural-looking and feeling single dental implant.

Can often be done at the time of the removal of the existing tooth
The implant is placed into the jaw bone
This will hold an abutment (connector) and a porcelain crown
Completed using top-of-the-range European implants
Porcelain tooth by local master technicians

Multiple implants

Do you have multiple missing teeth? It is no longer necessary to fill these gaps with dentures or to cut down neighbouring teeth for a bridge. The team at The Sydney Implant Institute can restore your smile and function with dental implants.

It is usually not necessary to replace each tooth with one dental implant
Implants are mechanically stronger than teeth and can often support more than one tooth. For example, two dental implants can often support four missing teeth
These teeth are called implant bridges. Dental implant bridges can replace long spans of missing teeth with natural, beautiful-looking porcelain ones.
In fact, implants often perform better when placed further away from other implants
At The Sydney Implant Institute, we can often remove teeth and place multiple implants in the same surgical appointment. This is usually done under sedation (twilight dentistry).
This way you can achieve the bite, function and beautiful smile you have been looking for sooner!

Full mouth dental implants

We often see patients for whom preserving their remaining teeth is no longer feasible nor practical. In these cases, we can restore function and aesthetics with whole mouth dental implants. This will allow you to smile again in photos and enjoy the foods you have been missing out upon.

All on 4 is the most common way to replace an entire arch of missing teeth, but individual implant bridges can be combined to support a full set of porcelain teeth that will look and function as closely to natural teeth as possible.

Types of dental implants

Implant brands and manufacturers

At The Sydney Implant Institute, we only use dental implants manufactured by the world’s leading implant companies. Nobel Biocare is the largest, oldest and most researched dental implant company in the world. Founded by the inventor of dental implants, this Swedish company can be relied upon to produce consistent quality and cutting-edge technology. We also utilise Straumann Implants. These are made in Switzerland and are renowned as the most prestigious and expensive implants on the market. The company prides itself on leading research and innovation to provide patients with the most predictable results.

All on 4 cases will be treated with Nobel Biocare implants. For back teeth, most cases will use Straumann implants, while for the aesthetic zone (front teeth), Nobel Biocare implants will typically be used again.

Better quality of implant, and therefore anchorage, increases safety during the early healing phase and leads to a superior structural and functional connection between vital bone and the implant
The SLActive® surface of the Straumann Dental Implant System can reduce the healing period from 6–8 weeks down to 3–4 weeks in all indications*.
Nobel Biocare implants use TiUnite surfaces, which are conducive to forming an early biological connection with the jaw bone.
The machining tolerances utilised by these teeth dental implant companies mean that all componentry fits precisely with NO movement. This prevents bacteria from the mouth from disrupting the biological union during function (eating).
So, better implants with better surfaces lead to faster and more predictable treatment outcomes.

Ceramic or non-metal dental implants

(Pictures from Straumann) Many patients would prefer not to have a metal implant placed in their bodies. While there is absolutely no evidence against using titanium implants, implant companies have recognised the desire in the market and now manufacture zirconia-based implants. The jaw bone grows into the ceramic implant much the same way as it does into a normal titanium implant. The Straumann “One” implant is the leader in this technology and thus, the only ceramic implant we use at The Sydney Implant Institute.

The Straumann “One” implant is ceramic and a pure white colour. This makes it appealing in some cases in the aesthetic zone if the bone and gum are very thin.
Ceramic implants have not been researched as heavily or for as long as titanium implants. However the early results are encouraging.
There are also not as many options as far as restoring (putting teeth on) ceramic implants. The Straumann “One” implant needs a cement-retained crown as it lacks the internal screw channel present in titanium implants.
If you are thinking of a ceramic implant come and see The Sydney Implant Institute for a complimentary consultation to see if they are right for you.

How do dental implants work?

Dental implants can be used to replace one, multiple or a full arch of missing teeth. Professor Brannemark, the inventor of teeth dental implants, found over 50 years ago (by accident) that when titanium screws were left behind in rabbits, the titanium formed an oxide layer that enabled the bone cells to grow into.

When a titanium implant is placed into the jaw bone the same thing happens and a strong, reliable biological union is formed. This then allows us to place a tooth of any shape and colour onto the implant, a tooth that doesn’t decay or hurt!

The titanium screw replaces and acts like the root of the tooth, providing the foundations for one or more teeth
The implant has an internal screw channel that allows us to screw an abutment (connector) into the implant
This abutment then supports the porcelain (sometimes resin if it is temporary) tooth
The abutments are screwed and torqued into the implant so they don’t come loose during function
The teeth can be made in any shape or colour to match your existing teeth, or your desired colour and shape if you are doing all your teeth
The gum then forms an attachment to the abutment and tooth that prevents bacteria from the mouth from disturbing the implant inside the jaw bone.

Are dental implants right for me?

We do dental implant procedures all day, every day. We offer a non-threatening, non-judgemental environment where our specialised team will make the process of having a dental implant as clear, easy and comfortable as possible.

At The Sydney Implant Institute, we make sure we are up to date on all the latest cutting-edge procedures that make implants more available, accessible and possible than they were in previous years.

If you have been told you can’t have dental implants, improvements in technology and techniques may mean that you no longer have to tolerate those gaps or dentures.

We have placed implants in patients as young as 18 and as old as 91. Most patients are fit and healthy enough to tolerate dental implant surgery; however, we always perform thorough medical screening to ensure that this is the case.

Having a tooth extracted is usually more invasive and uncomfortable than having an implant placed.

Before you decide to have one or more dental implants, it is important to come and see us for a complimentary consultation where we can assess your suitability.

Medical screening ensures you are healthy enough for the surgery and sedation if required. The vast majority of people are. On rare occasions we will need to contact your GP or medical specialist
Thorough dental screening will enable us to assess if an implant is the right treatment for you
We will discuss all your treatment options, as alternative solutions might sometimes be a better fit for your specific needs.
A 3D digital scan will enable us to determine if you have enough bone to support the implant or if we need to add some (bone grafting)
Digital photography and study models of your mouth will enable us to determine the most beautiful and harmonious way to restore your tooth and smile

Preparing for your dental implant procedure

Preparing for your dental implant procedure is an important step in ensuring a smooth experience. While your dentist at The Sydney Implant Institute will provide specific guidance based on your needs, there are general steps all patients can follow to feel ready:

Discuss your medical history — As mentioned, inform your dentist about any medical conditions, medications or allergies. This helps your dentist tailor the procedure and ensure your safety.
Quit smoking (if applicable) — Smoking can significantly slow down the healing process and increase the risk of complications. If you smoke, consider quitting at least a few weeks before and after the procedure.
Plan for recovery time — Arrange your schedule to allow for rest and healing after the surgery. You may need to take a day or two off work and avoid strenuous activities for a few days.
Follow dietary recommendations — Your dentist may advise you to eat soft foods or avoid eating for a certain period before the procedure, depending on the type of sedation used.
Stock up on supplies — Prepare for aftercare by having items like soft foods, ice packs and prescribed medications on hand.
Arrange transportation — If you’ll be under sedation, plan for someone to drive you home after the procedure.

The dental implant process

Your new teeth can be delivered quickly, predictably and with minimal disruption to your daily life. Here is the treatment process and what you can expect:

Assessment: This involves a comprehensive consultation, including X-rays and CT scans. We will provide you with a detailed treatment plan with a breakdown of costs and schedule.
Treatment planningand costs
Surgical implant placement and a temporary restoration: We will always strive to provide you with temporary teeth whilst the implant fuses to your bone.
Immediate dental implants
Keyhole surgery
Post-operative support and review
A healing phase is necessary and can range from weeks to months. However, three to four months is usual (complex cases involving bone or soft tissue replacement normally take longer)
Aesthetic workup and impressions are then taken to allow the technician to make the final implant-supported teeth.
Delivery of your final implant-supported teeth.
Review and photography

Bone & Gum Grafting

AN OPTIMUM FOUNDATION FOR YOUR IMPLANTS

Depending on your individual circumstances, bone and gum grafting may be required before your dental implants can be put in. Our expert team can assess your circumstances and come up with a suitable treatment plan.

When teeth are lost, the bone and gums begin to weaken and reduce immediately; the longer you wait to put in an implant, the more tissue is lost.
Gum and bone grafting are techniques to encourage the growth of bone and soft tissue where they have been lost.
This allows us to provide an optimum foundation for your dental implants and can be essential in cases where aesthetics are important.

Recovery expectations after dental implant surgery

Recovering from dental implant surgery is generally straightforward, with most patients experiencing mild and manageable symptoms of discomfort. You can expect the following during the recovery period:

Swelling — Some swelling in the gums and surrounding areas is normal, typically peaking within 48 hours. Using an ice pack during the first day can help reduce it, and it usually subsides within a few days.
Soreness or tenderness — Mild soreness or tenderness at the implant site is common and can often be eased with over-the-counter pain relief as recommended by your dentist. This sensation usually subsides within a few days.
Bleeding — Light bleeding from the surgical site may occur during the first 24 hours. Gently biting on gauze can help control it. Contact your dentist if bleeding continues beyond this period.
Bruising — Minor bruising on the gums or jaw may appear and typically fades within a week.
Dietary adjustments — A soft food diet is advised for a few days post-surgery to avoid stressing the implant site. Hot, spicy or crunchy foods should be avoided until the area has healed.

Advanced Healing Package

REDUCE HEALING TIMES BY 50%
Healing times for dental implant surgery can now be reduced by up to 50% using Advanced Platelet Rich Fibrin (APRF), one of the latest innovations in dentistry.

This ground-breaking technique uses the patient’s own blood platelets to increase collagen production and cell mitosis. This enhances healing and promotes soft tissue repair with reduced inflammation. It also provides greater bone regeneration around implants.

Caring for your Dental Implants

Why Good care and prevention are important

A bacterial inflammation of the gum and jaw bone around the implant, known as peri-implantitis, is one of the rare complications that can occur after implant treatment. The good news is that by maintaining good oral hygiene, you can generally prevent it yourself, as peri-implantitis is usually the result of poor dental care. When plaque around the implant isn’t removed regularly, bacteria can enter the jaw bone through the gums and cause an inflammation. In patients affected by peri-implantitis, the jaw bone is attacked by bacteria, too, and consequently retracts. In the worse case scenario, this can lead to the implant being removed. Providing good preventive care is, therefore, the best thing you can do to take care of your implant.

Oral hygiene

Taking good care of your teeth is a bit like doing sports — if you keep at it, it doesn’t take long before you see results. And, as of today, the effort is really worth it for you, because your new dental implants will make a major contribution to your quality of life.

Rinsing your mouth

In the first few days after your dental implant treatment, using a mouth rinse is definitely the number one choice for your dental care. At this point, you need to protect the sensitive wound, so don’t use your toothbrush! Right after the implant procedure, wait three to four hours for any bleeding to stop, but then rinse your mouth for around a minute up to three times a day or as advised by your dentist. They might also recommend the use of an oral rinse that contains chlorhexidine digluconate.

Taking good care of your teeth

Normally, on the fourth day after your surgery, you should be able to go back to regularly and thoroughly brushing your teeth. Using your electric toothbrush at this point should be fine, but if you’re unsure, use an extra soft toothbrush for your implants in the first few weeks.

Dental floss and interdental brushes

Bacteria make themselves at home in the spaces between your teeth, but with good, regular care, it’s easy to keep them under control. Your dentist or dental hygienist will be happy to show you how to use dental floss and interdental brushes, and then all it takes is a little practice. You can get started approximately four weeks after your implant treatment.

Questions to ask your dentist

At The Sydney Implant Institute, we value open communication and encourage our patients to ask questions about their dental implants. While we provide comprehensive information, asking questions allows you to better understand your treatment and feel confident in your decisions.

Here are a few ideas to guide your conversation:

Can you explain how this treatment applies to my specific case?
How will my medical history or current medications affect the procedure?
What are the potential risks or complications for my condition?
Are there alternative options I should consider?

Find out if dental implants suit your needs

If you’re considering teeth dental implants to restore your smile, schedule a consultation with The Sydney Implant Institute today. Our team will assess your individual situation to help determine whether this treatment aligns with your dental health goals and provide professional guidance throughout the process.

For additional information on dental implants in Sydney, explore our FAQs or reach out to our team.

Dental Implants before and after

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About Dental Implants Sydney

Economic dental implants

Dental implant alternatives and cost

There are other alternatives to dental implants, such as bridges or dentures. However, dental implants are the best solution since they are permanent and stronger; they are the most natural restoration option since they act and feel like your natural teeth and do not require damaging or intervening teeth on the side. Moreover, they provide better support and help preserve the natural appearance of the mouth, jaw and face, and bone structure. On the other hand, dentures or bridges do not solve the issue of lack of stimulation or bone loss because they do not put any or not sufficient pressure on the area if it is compared to a natural tooth. Besides, implants help to prevent gum problems and dental decay due to their metal composition.

Dental implant procedure step by step

Usually, you will need three visits to the dentist for the teeth implant procedure; it all depends on your circumstances, the tooth you will be replacing, your age, and whether tooth extraction or gum or bone treatments are required. Dental implant procedure pain depends on the complexity and number of implants needed, but local anaesthesia should make implant placement painless. Before recommending an implant, the dentist will review the area where the implants are to be placed and, with the help of X-rays, check if there is enough bone to support it. If it is a front tooth, in most cases, bone grafting will be necessary since the bone structure in these areas is usually very thin. In the first stage of the dental implant process, the dentist will gently lift the gums and place the screw, the foundation of your new tooth, into the jaw. Besides, they will remove any remaining teeth or infected material associated with the tooth. The implant must be buried inside the jaw for at least three months. During this time, the bone will fuse and support the dental implant, known as osseointegration. In this period, depending on your circumstances, the dentist may recommend a temporary denture or a bridge so that you can maintain the normal functions of the mouth. Then an impression is needed to make the custom implant crown and abutment. Then, the implant will be exposed to attach the connector and, if you have a temporary denture or bridge, modifications will be made so that you can continue using them. Two to six weeks after the second visit, the crown is placed on top of the implant. This will be an all-ceramic crown that has been custom made to match the colour, size and shape of your teeth.

What to expect after dental implant surgery?

Dental implant surgery is a complex procedure for a tooth and will probably be symptomatic for some time. If our dentist has prescribed medications (depending on what your GP deems appropriate), be sure to take these before the local anaesthetic wears off to minimise pain and swelling prior to sleeping. You might experience pain throughout the night. Keep taking your pain medication for as long as you are feeling pain. Pain is normal at this stage and will persist for up to 7 days. We highly recommend you eat soft foods for the next 5-7 days and eat on the other side since the area around the implant will be sore, sensitive and tender to bite on. And you could rinse your mouth with warm saltwater. Dental implants should last a lifetime, but good oral hygiene will help avoid complications or implant failure or loss. Good oral habits, which include brushing, flossing, and recurring visits to the dentist, will help prevent plaque buildup. If plaque is not removed, the bacteria may multiply and affect your gums (peri-implant mucositis); or you may experience inflammation around the implant and bone deterioration (peri-implantitis). If left untreated, it can lead to bone loss around the implant and loss of the same. Visits to the dentist are essential because some people may not identify these diseases since they may not feel pain or have no symptoms. It is highly recommended to stop smoking before and after surgery, as the risks of bone loss or dental implant failure are higher.

Dental implant bone graft procedure

Teeth implants are suitable for all ages; the requirement is that you have enough bone to support the implant. If this is not the case, the dentist may recommend resorting to bone grafting: this procedure will help restore the density of the jaw by replacing the missing bone with artificial material or a natural substitute. The dentist will also review your medical history to verify that you do not have any disease that can affect bone healing and that you are willing to commit to this process that can last between 3 and 9 months.

Dental Implants

What are dental implants?

Dental implant solutions

Replacement of a single tooth

Multiple implants

Full mouth dental implants

Types of dental implants

Implant brands and manufacturers

Ceramic or non-metal dental implants

How do dental implants work?

Are dental implants right for me?

Preparing for your dental implant procedure

The dental implant process

Bone & Gum Grafting

AN OPTIMUM FOUNDATION FOR YOUR IMPLANTS

Recovery expectations after dental implant surgery

Advanced Healing Package

Caring for your Dental Implants

Why Good care and prevention are important

Oral hygiene

Rinsing your mouth

Taking good care of your teeth

Dental floss and interdental brushes

Questions to ask your dentist

Find out if dental implants suit your needs

Dental Implants before and after

Economic dental implants

Dental implant alternatives and cost

Dental implant procedure step by step

What to expect after dental implant surgery?

Dental implant bone graft procedure

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