Dental Implants - Step by Step

Step 1: The Initial Consultation

The first step is understanding if dental implants are right for you. Maria, a vibrant 60-year-old who lost a molar years ago, visited us with questions about replacing her missing tooth. During her consultation, we:

• Discussed her goals: Maria wanted a long-term solution that would feel and function like her natural teeth.
• Reviewed her oral health: A thorough examination, including X-rays and 3D imaging, helped us assess her jawbone and overall oral health.
• Created a personalised plan: Together, we discussed her treatment options, answered her questions, and created a tailored plan for her implant journey.

What makes Maroubra Dental Clinic unique? Our advanced imaging technology ensures precise planning, and our welcoming team is always here to answer your questions.

Step 2: Preparations Before the Implant

For some patients, preparations like bone grafting or treating gum disease might be necessary before placing the implant. In Maria’s case, her jawbone was strong enough to support an implant, so we scheduled her implant surgery straight away.

What to expect in this stage:

• If bone grafting is needed, this step strengthens the jawbone and ensures a stable foundation for the implant.
• Healing time varies but is crucial for long-term success.

Step 3: Implant Placement Surgery

This is the stage where the dental implant, a titanium post acting as the tooth root, is placed into the jawbone. Maria was understandably a little nervous, but the procedure was performed under local anaesthesia, ensuring she was comfortable throughout.

The process:

1. We carefully inserted the implant into the jawbone.
2. The implant was secured, acting as a sturdy base for her future tooth.
3. Maria left with aftercare instructions and a temporary tooth in place.

Step 4: Healing and Osseointegration

After the surgery, a healing period of a few months allows the implant to fuse with the jawbone in a process called osseointegration. This step ensures the implant is secure and mimics the natural stability of a tooth root.

Maria followed her aftercare plan, which included:

• Maintaining excellent oral hygiene to prevent infection.
• Eating soft foods for the first week.
• Regular check-ins at our clinic to monitor her progress.

Maria says:
"The team at Maroubra Dental Clinic made me feel so cared for. They explained every step, so I always knew what to expect."

Step 5: Attaching the Abutment

Once healing was complete, Maria returned for the next phase: attaching the abutment, a connector between the implant and the crown. This quick procedure involved placing the abutment and preparing for her custom crown.

Step 6: Designing and Placing the Crown

The final step was creating and attaching Maria’s new tooth. Using modern digital technology, we designed a crown that matched her natural teeth in size, shape, and colour. The crown was secured to the abutment, completing her implant.

When Maria looked in the mirror, her reaction said it all:
"I couldn’t stop smiling—it looked and felt like my real tooth!"

Why Choose Maroubra Dental Clinic for Implants?

At Maroubra Dental Clinic, we’re passionate about making dental implants a stress-free experience. Here’s how we stand out:

• Modern Technology: From 3D imaging to digital crown design, we use the latest tools for precision and comfort.
• Patient-Centric Care: We prioritise your comfort, taking the time to answer questions and ensure you feel confident every step of the way.
• A Relaxing Environment: Located in the heart of Maroubra, our clinic is designed to help you feel at ease from the moment you walk in.

Schedule Your Consultation Today

If you’re ready to explore dental implants, we’re here to help. Like Maria, you can restore your smile and regain confidence with this life-changing treatment.

Call us today to schedule a consultation and take the first step towards a healthier, brighter smile.