What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a metal screw that is used in place of the root of your missing tooth. The dental implant is attached to the bone in your jaw where the roots of the missing tooth sat. The implant is usually made of a metal called titanium.

A dental implant can support a crown, dental bridge or dentures.

A crown is an artificial tooth. They are specially made to look like your other teeth.

A dental bridge is multiple crowns attached to each other.

A denture is a replacement for all the teeth on the upper and/or lower jaw.

What is a dental implant procedure?

A dental implant procedure is the name of the operation used to replace your missing teeth.

What are the benefits of a dental implant?

If you have one or more missing teeth, a dental implant might be an option to consider.

Dental implants are usually successful.

Some benefits are:

• improved confidence in how your teeth look
• being able to eat normally
• it feels like your natural teeth
• the implant procedure does not involve your other teeth

What does a dental implant procedure involve?

Your dental implant treatment procedure may be done by a:

• general dentist
• periodontist
• oral surgeon

They will develop a treatment plan.

A dental implant procedure is usually done in stages over a few months.

First, you will need to have x-rays. These will give your dental professional a clear picture of your jaw, and where to place the implant.

Your dental professional will put the dental implant into your jawbone in a minor operation. They will give you a local anaesthetic so that you don't feel pain during the surgery.

Over about 3 months your bone grows around the implant, which helps to hold it in place.

Whilst the implant site is healing, your crown is made in a laboratory. Once the implant is in place the crown, dental bridge or denture is then attached.

How can I prepare myself for a dental implant?

Talk to your health professional about the benefits and risks of getting a medical implant.

Use the Therapeutic Goods Administration's guide on what to ask about implants. The information is in:

• English
• Arabic
• Croatian
• Farsi
• Greek
• Italian
• Korean
• Mandarin
• Spanish
• Turkish
• Vietnamese

Take the time to ask questions before surgery. Your dental professional will need to explain your options so that you can provide informed consent.

Before you have a dental implant, your dental professional will check that:

• you have enough bone to hold the implant
• any medical conditions you have
• any medicines you take
• your gums are healthy

Some medications can impact whether you should have a dental implant.

Some conditions may impact the health of your jawbone. Other things may place you at a higher chance of having an infection or another complication. Let your doctor know if you:

• are aged over 60 years
• have osteoporosis
• have cancer
• have a bleeding disorder such as haemophilia
• have gum disease (periodontitis)
• have diabetes
• smoke

How soon will I recover?

It takes approximately three months for your bone to grow around your implant.

After the procedure, you might have some:

• bruising
• pain
• swelling of your gums
• swelling of your face
• bleeding from your gums

Ask your dental professional for advice if this happens to you.

It is important to follow any instructions from your dental professional after receiving your implant. This might include:

• using mouthwash instead of a brush or floss for 2 to 3 weeks
• eating soft foods while the surgery site is healing
• taking antibiotics if needed
• taking pain relief if needed

What complications can happen?

Possible problems with dental implants include:

• infection
• nerve damage
• sinus problems
• injury or damage to your surrounding teeth

How should I look after my dental implant?

Once your implant has healed, care for it like you care for your other teeth. You should:

• brush your teeth and gums twice a day
• clean between the implant and your other teeth using floss, interdental brushes, or a water flosser
• have regular dental check-ups

If you have swelling or inflammation of your gums or bone, have it checked and treated.

Are there alternatives to a dental implant?

Some alternatives to dental implants are:

• wearing dentures that you can remove
• having a dental bridge attached to your surrounding teeth

Ask your dental professional which option is best for you.

What are the costs of dental implants?

A dental implant can be expensive. Make sure you know all the costs of your treatment before you start. Your dental professional can explain the costs and give you a quotation.

If you have private health insurance, find out if it can cover some of the cost.

If you have a Veteran's Gold or White Card you may be able to claim the cost of your dental implants from Medicare.

Resources and support

You can find out more about how to care for your teeth at Teeth.org.au.

You can learn more at the Australian & New Zealand Academy of Periodontists website.

You can also call the healthdirect helpline on 1800 022 222 (known as NURSE-ON-CALL in Victoria). A registered nurse is available to speak with you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.