A genuine tooth comprises of a root and a crown. When you contrast natural teeth with implant-supported replacements, you’ll notice they share similar fundamental components. Each possesses a crown, which is the visible part utilized for chewing food, and a root that firmly secures the tooth beneath the gum and integrates into the jawbone. The distinction lies in the material; the implant root is crafted from titanium, a well-established material also employed by surgeons for artificial joints. The ceramic crown, which is the only portion of the implant visible to the eye, mimics the aesthetics of the natural tooth.
Once the implant is placed, it serves as a sturdy foundation for a replacement tooth or a dental crown. This replacement tooth, often made of ceramic or porcelain, is custom-designed to match the shape, size, and colour of the patient’s natural teeth, ensuring a seamless blend with the rest of the smile. This process of placing the final crown on the implant is done either by Dr Leo or your referring dentist.
Dental implants offer several advantages over traditional tooth replacement options like bridges or dentures. They provide a more permanent solution as they fuse with the jawbone, offering stability and preventing bone loss. Implants also restore functionality by allowing patients to chew and speak with ease, and they contribute to maintaining overall oral health by preventing neighbouring teeth from shifting into the gap left by the missing tooth.
Dr Leo is able to perform both the initial placement of the implant fixture (root) as well as the crown (visible portion of the implant). You will not have to travel to see another dentist for the entire process.
Dental implants are placed with the area numbed with a local anaesthetic, so there is no pain associated with the procedure. In patients who are anxious about having a dental procedure done, sedation options can be discussed as well. However, with modern advancements in dental implants, Dr Leo often uses a keyhole surgery technique using a digitally guided approach. In some cases, the implant is placed without any incision, and the procedure is done within 15 minutes. It may take you longer to have a filling done, than to have a dental implant placed!
Post-operatively, some discomfort is to be expected, but most patients do not need to take time off work, as long as the post-operative instructions are abided by. Any pain after the procedure is very well managed by pain medications. The discomfort typically goes away after 3 days, but can last up to 14 days, depending on the procedure and number of implants placed.
Dr. Leo and his team practice compassionate dentistry, recognizing that dental appointments can cause anxiety and fear in some patients.
If you experience anxiety about receiving dental care, please inform us, as we offer various methods to ensure your visit is as comfortable as possible.
Regardless of your specific level of anxiety, our office is dedicated to ensuring that your appointment is comfortable, efficient, and stress-free.
Whether you’re nervous about needles, need some help relaxing, or simply need a gentle and understanding dentist, Dr Leo is able to accommodate your needs.
We provide:
– Virtually Pain-free injections for local anaesthetic
– Oral sedation
– Potent modern anaesthetic formulations
– Gentle and compassionate dental care
Dr Leo exclusively uses one or two of the largest and most internationally recognised brands of dental implants (Straumann Group, Switzerland). This means that you can be assured that if you do relocate to a different area or country, any dentist with some experience with maintaining or working with dental implants will be able to source parts for it should it be necessary. This is a frequently overlooked factor, but serviceability of a dental implant should be one of the most important things a patient should consider prior to choosing an implant dentist.
Your implant will also be restored with genuine components and an Australian made ceramic crown. This is a critical factor as well. The crown is the only visible part of the implant, and it should be made by a talented dental technician. Dr Leo works with a couple of the most highly skilled ceramic artisans in the country, who will be able to deliver the most aesthetic implant crown possible.
A single dental implant and crown typically costs $5,000 to $7,500 in Australia. Our base fees for a dental implant, from start to finish, is $3,995, making it the highest quality yet the most affordable in the region. Additional fees may apply if grafting procedures are necessary. Learn more about bone grafts here.
Dental implants provide a reliable, safe, aesthetic, and long-lasting solution for individuals seeking to restore the function and aesthetics of their smile after tooth loss. Contact our clinics or arrange a phone consultation to find out more about how we can help you.
Ballina Dental Group
(Formerly Coolangatta Dental Group)
Wednesdays and Select Fridays
8:30AM – 5:00PM
02 6686 4503
Goonellabah Dental Practice
Thursdays
8:30AM – 5:00PM
02 6624 1408
Helms & White Dental
Fridays
9:00AM – 5:00PM
02 6621 9933
Casino Dental
By Appointment
Please give our friendly staff a call to arrange an appointment.
02 6662 1722
Griffith University Dental Clinic
(Southport)
Tuesdays
By Referral Only – no direct bookings