Why dental implants
Why so many people choose dental implants
Implants are effective, convenient and durable, and they can be placed without damaging neighbouring teeth. Here is what that means for your everyday life.
The short version
- Eat the foods you love
- Protect your jawbone
- Last with proper care
- Look natural
- Easy to maintain
Top five reasons
The difference implants can make
How implants compare
Implants vs bridges vs dentures
| Dental implant | Bridge | Removable denture | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Replaces the tooth root | ✓ Yes | ✕ No | ✕ No |
| Leaves neighbouring teeth untouched | ✓ Yes | ✕ Teeth are reshaped | ✓ Mostly |
| Helps preserve jawbone | ✓ Yes | ✕ No | ✕ No |
| Stable when eating and speaking | ✓ Fixed in place | ✓ Fixed in place | Can slip or move |
| How long it lasts | Implant can last a lifetime with good care | Usually replaced over time | Usually relined or replaced over time |
Results vary from person to person. Your dentist will explain the risks, benefits, costs and alternatives for your situation.
Why bone matters
Missing teeth affect more than your smile
When a tooth is lost, the bone that held it no longer gets the stimulation of chewing and slowly shrinks. Over time this can let neighbouring teeth drift, change your bite, and give the face a sunken look.
Because an implant replaces the root, it keeps working the bone, which is why it is the only tooth replacement that helps preserve it.
Replacing a tooth early can help prevent
- Bone loss in the jaw
- Neighbouring teeth shifting into the gap
- Changes to your bite
- Extra strain on remaining teeth
- A sunken facial appearance
Questions
Common questions
Straight answers to the questions patients ask us most. Your dentist will go through everything that applies to you at your free consultation.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium post that replaces the root of a missing tooth. It is placed in the jawbone, where it bonds with the bone over a few months (a process called osseointegration). A custom crown, bridge or denture is then attached on top, so the new tooth looks, feels and works like a natural one.
How long do dental implants last?
The implant itself is designed to be permanent. With good daily brushing and flossing and regular check-ups, it can last a lifetime. The crown on top takes the wear of everyday chewing and may need replacing after many years, which is simple because the implant stays in place.
Am I a good candidate for dental implants?
Most adults with one or more missing teeth can have implants. What matters most is healthy gums and enough jawbone to hold the implant, and if bone has been lost, a bone graft can often rebuild it. Conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes or heavy smoking can slow healing, so your dentist will review your health history, take a 3D CBCT scan and confirm your options at your consultation.
How do I look after a dental implant?
Just like natural teeth: brush twice a day, clean between your teeth daily with floss or interdental brushes, and keep up with regular check-ups and cleanings. Healthy gums are the key to a long-lasting implant.
How much do dental implants cost?
A single dental implant starts from $1,299*, and a single implant with a crown starts from $2,299*. A CT scan to confirm the right implant for you is an additional $100. Multiple-tooth and full-arch treatments are quoted individually at your consultation, because they depend on how many implants and what type of teeth you need. See our pricing for details.
Keep exploring
Explore related care
Change your smile. Change your life.
Book a free, no-obligation consultation at a clinic near you. We are happy to answer any questions you have.