Dental Implants

Dental Implants

When a tooth is missing, a dental implant provides a treatment option that can look natural and function a lot like your own tooth. An implant is not attached to the surrounding teeth, so it is easier to clean than a bridge. Unlike a denture, an implant doesn’t come in and out of the mouth. It is fixed in place, and is constructed to look like a natural tooth. Many patients can even forget it is there!

It can be disappointing to learn that a tooth needs to be extracted. However, modern dental implants can often be used as immediate tooth replacements, meaning the implant is placed at the same appointment the tooth is removed. This can ensure that the tooth replacement process is as efficient as possible, and can also maintain the aesthetics of your smile.

When you're ready to restore your smile with dental implants, we're here to help Coffs Harbour and Dorrigo residents every step of the way. From smile design to cosmetic dentistry, we’ll have you smiling with confidence from the moment you step through the doors.

Types of Dental Implants

An implant is not for everyone. Whether or not a dental implant is appropriate to restore a missing tooth depends on the quality of bone that is available. Your dentist will be able to tell you if you are eligible for an implant after examining your mouth and taking a scan of the area.

Single Tooth Replacement

The most common type of dental implant is a single unit (including the implant itself, and the crown) which is used to replace a single tooth. This option is an appropriate choice if the teeth surrounding the gap are unrestored, or heavily compromised. Both of these circumstances make a bridge less desirable.

A single dental implant is the closest thing to replacing a natural tooth in a like-for-like way. Modern implants have very good longevity under most circumstances, and all come with manufacturer and laboratory warranties.

Multiple Tooth Replacement

If multiple teeth are missing, two or more implants can be used to support multiple crowns. This is an implant supported bridge. It’s a great option for patients who currently wear a partial denture, and would prefer a fixed, non-removable restorative option. In certain circumstances, it may be appropriate to use a single implant to restore two adjacent missing teeth. This however can impact hygiene and may compromise aesthetics.

Implant Retained Dentures

For people who wear full upper or lower dentures, implants can make a very significant improvement to denture stability and retention. Two or more implants are placed with special adapters that clip on to the denture. The denture is still removable for cleaning, but the retention and stability is greatly increased. 

We have a transparent fee policy. See our fee schedule so you can make a fully informed decision.

Make a Booking

Make an appointment to discuss your unique dental or restorative needs. We have two locations, Coffs Harbour and Dorrigo.

Please note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risk. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.

FAQs

  • Our Coffs Harbour and Dorrigo team will see if dental implants are right for you. Here’s what they’ll check: 

    • Your general health: Because implants involve surgery, it’s important that your body is well enough to heal. If you have conditions like diabetes or anything that affects immunity, just let your dentist know so they can plan around it.

    • Jawbone strength: Your jaw needs to be strong enough to hold the implant. If it’s not, a simple bone graft might be recommended first to strengthen the area.
      Healthy gums: Your gums need to be infection-free. If there’s any sign of gum disease, that’ll be treated before your implant journey begins.

    • Lifestyle habits: Smoking can affect healing, so your dentist may chat with you about quitting or taking a break to support your recovery.
      Your age: Dental implants are usually offered to adults (18+), as younger jaws are still growing.

    • Dental check-up: If you’ve got any other dental issues – like a cavity or a cracked tooth – your dentist will likely treat those first so your mouth is in top shape.

  • All-on-4® is a modern approach to full-arch tooth replacement, designed to bring back both function and confidence. It involves placing four dental implants, strategically positioned in the jawbone to provide strong support for a fixed arch of custom-made teeth. This option may be ideal if you’re missing several teeth, facing advanced decay or dealing with the effects of gum disease. Unlike more invasive full-mouth dental implants, All-on-4® is streamlined, efficient and tailored for lasting comfort.

  • A dental implant is made up of three parts, and each has its own timeline when it comes to how long it will last: 

    • A titanium screw is carefully placed in your jaw. This little piece of metal is remarkably strong and, with proper care (like regular dental visits), it can last the rest of your life once it integrates with your bone. 

    • The abutment, which connects the implant to the crown, is often just as durable, especially if it's made from titanium too.

    • The crown is the only component that typically needs replacing. How often depends on the material and how much wear it sees, but most crowns last somewhere between 5 to 15 years – sometimes even longer! Your dentist will help you choose the best type for your lifestyle.

  • Despite what you might have heard, dental implant surgery doesn't have to be something you dread. We use advanced anaesthesia techniques to ensure you're completely comfortable, turning what many fear into a surprisingly manageable experience.