Replacing One Missing Tooth
A dental implant is a small titanium post placed into the jawbone to take the place of a missing tooth root. Once the bone has healed around it, the implant supports a custom- made crown.
Dr John Paul Lee has a particular interest in implantology and oral surgery, with a focus on providing this treatment locally so patients can access it without always needing to travel to a major city.
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Why Replace a Missing Tooth
When a tooth is lost, the surrounding bone gradually reduces in volume. Neighbouring teeth may drift towards the gap, and the opposing tooth can over-erupt, which affects your bite over time.
Replacing the tooth restores chewing function and appearance and helps maintain the position of the surrounding teeth.
Why an Implant Rather Than a Bridge or Denture
An implant is a standalone replacement. Unlike a bridge, it does not require the healthy teeth either side of the gap to be prepared and crowned. Unlike a denture, it is fixed in place rather than removable.
That said, an implant is not always the right answer. It requires adequate bone, healthy gums, suitable general health and a longer treatment timeline. Where a bridge or denture is more appropriate for your circumstances, we will say so and explain why.
The Treatment Process
- AssessmentWe examine your mouth and take scans and imaging, including an OPG and digital scanning, to assess bone volume, gum health and the position of nearby structures. This tells us whether implant treatment is suitable.
- PlanningThe implant position is planned digitally so it supports the crown correctly and works with your bite.
- PlacementThe implant is placed into the bone under local anaesthetic.
- HealingThe bone integrates with the implant over a period of months. In some cases a temporary tooth is provided during this time.
- RestorationOnce healing is complete, we take a scan and the final crown is made and fitted.
Suitability and Risks
Not every patient is a candidate. Bone volume, gum health, general health, some medications and habits such as smoking all affect whether implants are appropriate and how well they perform. Where there is insufficient bone, additional procedures may be required, and in some cases implants are not advisable at all.
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks. These may include infection, healing complications, damage to nearby structures, or the implant failing to integrate. We discuss the risks relevant to your case before you consent to treatment.
Caring for an Implant
An implant does not decay, but the gum and bone around it can become inflamed if plaque is not removed thoroughly. This can lead to bone loss around the implant and, in some cases, implant failure.
Daily cleaning as instructed and regular professional reviews are essential to the long-term outcome.
Book Your Appointment
To arrange an implant assessment, call 03 5792 2055 or send us an enquiry.
- Phone
- 03 5792 2055
- Address
- 72 Anzac Avenue, Seymour VIC 3660
- Hours
- Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm
Wheelchair access is available at the rear of the practice. HICAPS is available for on-the-spot health fund claiming, so please bring your health fund card. We are a preferred provider for Medibank and Bupa, and we participate in Smile.com.au. Payment plans are available through DentiCare and Pretty Penny Finance.
Health funds
Frequently Asked Questions
Treatment is staged over several months to allow the bone to heal around the implant. Your timeframe is explained after your assessment.
The area is numbed for the procedure. Some discomfort and swelling afterwards is normal, and we provide aftercare advice for managing it.
There is no upper age limit. What matters is your bone, gum health, general health and medications, all of which are considered at your assessment.
Additional procedures may be able to improve the site, or another option such as a bridge or denture may be more appropriate. We explain what applies in your case.
No treatment can be guaranteed. Implants can last many years with good cleaning and regular reviews, but they can be affected by gum and bone disease if not maintained.
Some funds provide a benefit under major dental cover, often with waiting periods and limits. Check with your fund, and payment plans are available through DentiCare and Pretty Penny Finance.