Dental implants are titanium screws that replace and function as the new root of a missing or extracted tooth. They form a foundation for which a crown (cap) or bridge can be attached. The primary role of dental implants is to enable the restoration of appearance and function of teeth in both the upper and lower jaws.

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Due to the biocompatible properties of titanium, a dental implant fuses (osseo-integrates) with the bone over the 3-6 months after its placement and becomes a stable platform for the replacement teeth.

Dental implants can be used to replace either single or multiple missing teeth. Additionally, implants can be used to stabilise and retain upper and lower fixed or removable dentures to prevent them moving during speech and chewing.

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When teeth are lost, the bone supporting the teeth tends to reduce with time. If there is insufficient bone or soft tissue for the dental implant then bone augmentation (addition) surgery may be indicated prior to implant placement.

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It is important to consider this at the time of dental extraction. Only Specialist Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons are able to provide the full scope and widest option of both in-rooms and hospital based bone augmentation procedures.

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Anyone who is missing one or more teeth due to injury, disease or tooth decay may be a candidate for dental implants. The determining factors are the amount of available bone and the patient’s underlying medical history. 

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Dr Vickers will work closely with your General Dentist or Specialist Restorative Dentist to create a treatment plan that will provide you with the highest quality aesthetic and functional result.