A dental implant is a permanent restoration option that closely resembles a natural tooth. It is durable and reliable and can last a patient their entire life. A titanium screw is placed into the jawbone and forms an anchor for a crown, bridge or denture attachment. The implant offers stability for the new tooth and is designed to look and function like normal teeth.
Getting a dental implant does require some surgery and this can be performed under local or general anaesthetic. These recommendations and options will be discussed at your initial consultation when a treatment plan with timeline will be developed for you. It can take 3-6 months for your implant to heal and your treatment to be completed. Your referring dentist will then place the crown, bridge or denture onto the implant.
A patient who is a good candidate for a dental implant is one who is in good oral health. You will also needs to have adequate bone mass in your jaw to help support the dental implant. If you have insufficient bone mass, Dr Chahoud may discuss bone grafting options.
Preparing for Surgery
Once your treatment plan has been agreed on, you will be directed to one of our patient coordinators who will work with you to find the best possible time for your surgery.
If you are having a local anaesthetic, we will schedule your appointment in the clinic and provide you with instructions before your return.
For patients requiring general anaesthetic in hospital, our staff will coordinate the booking with the hospital of choice and provide you will all the necessary information you will need for your upcoming surgery. This information will include your fasting and admission document, anaesthetist information, quote and before and after surgery information. Please contact our experienced staff with and any questions or concerns that you may have.
After Surgery
We have prepared your Post Operative Instructions here:
It is imperative that you follow these instructions for the quickest and smoothest of recoveries with minimal pain and risk of infection.
Maintaining a nutrient rich diet post surgery will aid in a quick recovery with less risk of infection.
We have prepared a Recommended Food List here.