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Here’s a detailed look at how one typically undergoes the dental implant process.

Initial Consultation and Planning

In the initial phase of the dental implant process, a thorough consultation takes place. Here, your oral health is evaluated, medical and dental backgrounds are reviewed, and candidacy for implants is determined by the dentist. This assessment typically includes X-rays or 3D imaging to evaluate the bone density and structure of your jaw, which is essential for supporting the implant.

Creating a Personalised Treatment Plan

If dental implants are deemed suitable, the dentist will create a personalised treatment plan. This plan addresses your specific dental needs and outlines the entire implant process, including any preliminary procedures that may be required.

Preparatory Procedures

In some cases, preparatory procedures such as tooth extractions or bone grafts are necessary before placing the implants. Bone grafting is done to enhance the jawbone where the bone is not adequate to support an implant. This phase must be completed and healed before moving forward with the implant placement.

Implant Placement

The actual implant procedure is typically performed under local anaesthesia, and sedation options are available for those who may feel anxious. The procedure involves making a small incision in the gum to expose the bone where the titanium implant, which serves as a tooth root substitute, is then carefully placed. After the implant is positioned, the surrounding gum tissue is sutured closed. The healing process, or osseointegration, begins—this is where the bone integrates with the surface of the implant. This healing phase can take several months, during which the implant becomes securely fused with the bone.

Abutment Attachment

Once the implant has bonded with the jawbone, the next phase involves attaching an abutment. The dental abutment serves as a link between the implant and the final dental restoration, like a crown. Another minor surgery is required to attach the abutment, usually carried out under local anaesthesia. After the gum tissue around the abutment heals, impressions of the teeth and gums are made to custom design the artificial tooth or teeth.

Placement of the Prosthesis

The last phase of the dental implant procedure involves installing the crown, bridge, or denture. Crafted to match your natural teeth’s colour and shape from previous impressions, this dental prosthesis seamlessly integrates with your smile. Once the prosthesis is ready, it is securely attached to the abutment.

Post-Treatment Care

After the prosthesis is placed, maintaining excellent oral hygiene and attending routine dental check-ups becomes imperative. Consistent care and monitoring contribute significantly to prolonging the lifespan of your implants.

At our clinic, we are committed to providing high-quality dental care that is both quality and affordable. We accept a range of health funds including CBHS, NIB, Medibank, HCF, and Bupa to ensure you receive the professional service you deserve without financial strain. Our dental assistants are trained to offer the best care, and you can use your health fund benefits to access various dental treatments.

Consultation and X-rays

The first stage of root canal treatment involves a thorough diagnosis to confirm that such treatment is necessary. This typically starts with a consultation during which the dentist discusses symptoms with the patient—such as sensitivity to heat or cold, pain, and swelling. Following the consultation, X-rays of the affected tooth are taken to assess the extent of the damage and to visualise the shape of the root canals and the surrounding bone structures.

Evaluating Tooth Viability

The dentist also evaluates the viability of the tooth for a root canal procedure. Factors considered include the integrity of the tooth structure, the extent of decay, and the presence of infection in the surrounding tissues.

Anaesthesia and Tooth Isolation

Before the actual procedure begins, the area around the tooth is numbed using local anaesthesia to ensure comfort throughout the treatment. A dental dam—a small, protective sheet of rubber or vinyl—is placed over the area to isolate the tooth and keep it clean and dry during the procedure.

Removing Infected Material

The core of the treatment involves accessing the root canal system. To access the pulp chamber, the dentist drills an opening in the crown of the tooth. Diseased or dead pulp is removed along with bacteria, decayed nerve tissue and related debris from the canals. Special instruments called files are used to clean out and shape the canals.

Disinfecting the Canal

After shaping the canals, they are flushed with disinfecting solutions to remove any remaining bacteria. Ensuring healing and preventing further infection is critical at this stage.

Drying and Filling

Once the canals are clean and disinfected, they are dried using absorbent paper points. A rubber-like material called gutta-percha is then used to fill the canals. Adhesive cement is commonly employed to secure the gutta-percha in place, ensuring full sealing of the root canals. This part of the procedure ensures that the canals are completely sealed off from the oral environment, preventing re-infection.

Placement of a Temporary Filling

A temporary filling is placed on the opening on the tooth to protect the interior canals between dental visits. This is usually replaced by a permanent filling or a crown in a subsequent appointment.

Adding a Crown or Permanent Filling

For teeth that require additional structural support, a crown may be placed. This is often necessary for molars and premolars that undergo significant stress from chewing. A crown provides a protective cover, restoring the tooth to its full function and appearance.

Monitoring and Maintenance

After the procedure, follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor the healing of the tooth and to ensure that the infection has been cleared. Patients are instructed on the importance of proper oral hygiene to preserve the treated tooth and promote gum health.