Dental Implants
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root surgically implanted into your jawbone beneath your gums. They provide a solid foundation to support a bridge, crown or denture. They are the most natural looking restoration option which you don’t remove for cleaning. You can still eat all the foods you love, as the dental implant feels just like a natural tooth allowing you to chew food with them.
Dental implants provide both functionality and aesthetic value to the look of a smile. Instead of having to worry about missing teeth or dentures slipping, dental implants allow you to eat and smile without hesitation.
The replacement teeth will be colour matched your natural teeth which will give the implant the appearance they are a natural tooth.
The Loss of a tooth can be a traumatising experience, especially a front tooth. Recent advances in dental technology have allowed dentists to restore these missing teeth while leaving adjacent teeth untouched, and allowing the patient to look and feel as if the tooth was never lost. The dentist uses custom attachments and a lab fabricated porcelain crown to replace the missing tooth and restore the patient to optimum aesthetics and function.
The Benefits of Dental Implants on the Central Coast
Dental implants are a contemporary option for replacing missing teeth. They are designed to interact with the jawbone, forming a base for replacement teeth that function without relying on adhesives or support from nearby teeth. This approach reflects how natural tooth roots behave, offering a stable structure that may enhance daily oral function.
In contrast to removable dentures or traditional bridges, which rest on the gums or depend on adjacent teeth for support, implants are placed into the bone. This placement allows them to operate independently, potentially minimising pressure on surrounding teeth and contributing to overall balance in the mouth. Beyond structural considerations, dental implants may also influence comfort, hygiene routines, and how the mouth functions in everyday life.
Some potential benefits include:
- Support for jawbone structure: Implants may help retain bone mass by providing stimulation where natural teeth are missing. This stimulation can help maintain bone volume, which often diminishes over time following tooth loss.
Why Choose Dental Implants on the Central Coast?
Deciding how to replace missing teeth involves weighing several options. Dental implants are one approach considered by many individuals on the Central Coast due to their structural characteristics and functional role in oral care. Their ability to interact with the jawbone offers an alternative to solutions that rely on adhesives or neighbouring teeth.
Dental implants are commonly explored for their ability to support different types of prosthetics, from single crowns to full-arch restorations. This versatility allows clinicians to adapt the treatment to the patient’s specific needs, particularly in cases of long-term tooth loss or when other options may not be feasible. The fixed nature of implants may also contribute to a sense of stability in everyday situations such as speaking and eating.
Implant Dentists on the Central Coast
Implant dentistry requires careful planning and precise techniques. At Dental at Lake Haven, our dentists guide patients through the various stages of implant treatment, from initial consultation to maintenance and follow-up. We begin with a comprehensive evaluation to understand oral health status, jawbone condition, and other relevant factors that may influence treatment pathways.
Our dentists use diagnostic tools and imaging to build a tailored plan based on individual needs. Patient comfort and communication are important throughout this process, and we aim to provide explanations at every stage. This can include outlining timelines, procedural steps, and ongoing care requirements. Each case is approached with consideration for individual circumstances, including medical history, oral hygiene, and expectations. Our team works collaboratively, using available technologies to gather information and assist in planning procedures that align with a patient’s overall health goals.
Contact Us for Your Dental Implant Consultation
If you’re looking into dental implants on the Central Coast, you’re welcome to get in touch with our team at Dental at Lake Haven. A consultation can provide the opportunity to review your oral health, consider potential treatment paths, and ask questions about implant-related procedures.
Our process involves open communication and thoroughly assessing your dental history and current condition. We aim to understand your goals and preferences before outlining options that may align with your needs. There is no obligation to proceed, and patients are encouraged to take the time they need when considering their choices. The consultation focuses on sharing information to support decision-making. If dental implants are among the possibilities discussed, we can explain the typical stages and considerations involved. We remain available to provide further details or clarification where needed. For more information or to request an appointment, please contact Dental at Lake Haven. Our staff can help arrange a time for you to speak with a dentist in a comfortable and professional environment.
Meet Dr. Nick Kulkarni
Dr. Nick Kulkarni BDS Grad Dip Clin Dent (Oral Implants) University of Sydney
Dental at Lake Haven welcomes Dr Nick Kulkarni from Sydney once a month. Dr Nick has extensive experience with Dental Implants and is renowned for his quality workmanship.
With over 20 years of experience in all fields of dentistry, Dr Nick has a keen interest in dental implants. He has undergone extensive implant training from Misch Implant Institute in Florida, USA, and Walpole Institute in London.
He received his Fellowship from the International Congress of Oral Implantologists in Vancouver, Canada. Nick completed the prestigious graduate diploma program from the University of Sydney, further enhancing his expertise in surgical grafting procedures.
He is widely regarded as a key opinion leader in his field and conducts training and mentoring courses for other dentists. Nick has worked in India, Russia, Dubai, and Western Australia before calling Sydney his home.
He takes pride in ethical treatment planning and adopts a gentle, calm approach to ensure the comfort of his patients.
“I believe in offering evidence-based scientific treatment in the most relaxed and gentle manner. I encourage my patients to ask plenty of questions regarding their dental health and well-being. I am approachable like my patients to actively participate in their dental care so that they can make informed decisions about treatment choices. Together, we can achieve the best health and treatment outcomes”.
Implants
Our Central Coast dental team is able to fit the following kinds of implants to accommodate the unique needs of patients:
Endosteal
This method entails a screw, cylinder or blade being surgically inserted into the jawbone. These are used to support one or multiple prosthetic teeth. By far the most common type of implant, endosteal is typically selected by patients who do not wish to opt for a bridge or removable dentures.
Subperiosteal
If you are unable to wear conventional dentures, or have minimal jawbone height, a subperiosteal implant can serve as a good alternative. These implants rest on top of the jaw and make use of a metal framework which protrudes through the gum in order to hold the artificial tooth in place.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it typically take to heal after an implant procedure?
The healing period can range from a few days to several weeks – depending on the extent of the work that has been required and the unique dental condition of the patient.
Am I too old for a dental implant?
No. There are no age restrictions when it comes to being eligible for an implant. However, it’s typically not advisable for children to receive implants as their jaws undertake significant levels of development as they grow into adulthood.
Are special dental check-ups required if I have an implant?
Yes. You will need to visit your dentist on a regular basis so they can assess how the implant is adjusting and advise if any changes need to be made to keep it in the best condition. Your dentist will be able to advise you on the recommended schedule.
What can I expect during the dental implant procedure?
The dental implant process typically involves several stages. First, the implant is surgically positioned into the jawbone, allowing it to bond with the bone over a few months. This healing period helps the implant integrate securely, forming a solid foundation. Once integrated, an abutment is attached to connect the implant to the final crown or prosthetic tooth. Each step is completed with local anaesthesia to minimise discomfort, and aftercare guidance supports a smooth recovery. To learn more about dental implants on the Central Coast.
How long do dental implants last, and how should I care for them?
Dental implants can be a lasting solution for tooth replacement with proper care. Similar to natural teeth, implants require consistent oral hygiene practices such as brushing, flossing, and regular dental check-ups to monitor their condition. Avoiding habits like smoking or teeth grinding can also help prolong the life of the implant. Though designed to be highly durable, maintaining oral hygiene is essential to prevent gum disease, which could impact the implant’s longevity.
What are the benefits of choosing dental implants over other tooth replacement options?
Dental implants can offer unique advantages compared to options like dentures or bridges. Unlike removable dentures, implants remain fixed, providing stable support for chewing and speaking without shifting. They can also stimulate the jawbone, helping maintain facial structure over time. Also, implants don’t rely on neighbouring teeth for support, protecting natural teeth from unnecessary wear. Overall, implants can provide a functional, natural-looking, and durable solution for tooth replacement.