(02) 9908 5588

Treatments

Dental Implants

Dental implants are used when teeth, or a set of teeth, are missing. This is done by inserting a biocompatible titanium screw in to the gum, in place of the root of the missing teeth. The screw sits in place of where the missing tooth’s roots were and has a crown/ bridge (artificial tooth) attached to the top of it.

Over time, bone grows around the implant, which helps to hold it in place long-term. Each crown that is attached to the screw is specially designed to look like your other teeth. This is achieved by matching the size, shape and colour of your other teeth. Dental implants are also used to hold a dental bridge or dentures in place.

Implants Suitability

  • The jawbone is healthy and fully grown.

  • There are no conditions present that affect bone healing.

  • There is no gum disease present or has been appropriately treated, monitored and controlled to be stable.

The procedure

This specialist procedure is performed with the use of magnifying loupes or microscopy and additional surgical lights. Surgical miniaturised dental instruments are also used.

Placement

After removal of any damaged teeth through a minimally invasive procedure, or in the instance there is no tooth, the gum is surgically incised to allow the preparation of the bone and place the implant. The implant is then placed in to the jawbone and covered while the bone fuses to the implant via a process known as osseointegration.

Crown

After several months have past, when the osseointegration process is complete, a second operation may be required to uncover the top of the implant and connecting an abutment to the implant that is integrated in the bone. Finally, the crown or bridge is fitted.

FAQs

Is the procedure painful?
No. During the procedure you will be under the appropriate level of pain management and sedation. Following surgery, mild discomfort is controlled with conventional pain medication. In case of implant placement with simultaneous advanced bone augmentation, the procedure is carried out under sedation or with the use of happy gas which often provide favourable relief in both pain and anxiety.

How long do dental implants last?
Recent studies indicate dental implants can last from 10 to 30 years without issues. Regular and very careful maintenance is required to ensure good function for the longest possible time.

I have bone loss, can I still have a dental implant?
In most cases, yes. Bone grafting is now a routinely performed treatment in order to promote bone grow and allowing for a dental implant. 

How do you take care of dental implants?
The crown attached to the screw from your implant requires regular maintenance, just like regular teeth. However, their demand for attendance is higher than your natural teeth. If well-treated cases, they are very successful and have long longevity. Yet, if not appropriately cared for, they are subjective to Peri-implant Diseases and often deteriorate at a mach faster rate than natural dentition. Regular dental visits are recommended 2-4 times per year to maintain great hygiene. Careful and consistent home oral hygiene including interdental brushing is essential for the long-term function of dental implants.

Enquire
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding with a surgical or invasive procedure, you should seek opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
Dr Lizzy Hui
Dr Lizzy Hui
Specialist Periodontist · BDS, DCD (Perio), MRACDS, MBA · Sydney & Newcastle
This information is provided by Dr Lizzy Hui, an AHPRA-registered Specialist Periodontist and Director of Smile Specialists Suite and Kiama Dental Specialists. Read Dr Hui's full profile.

Dental Implants — FAQs

What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium or ceramic post placed into the jaw bone to replace the root of a missing tooth. Once healed, it supports a crown, bridge or denture, restoring the look and function of natural teeth.
Can I get dental implants if I've had gum disease?
Often yes, but active gum disease must be treated and stabilised first, because healthy gums and bone are essential for an implant to succeed. As a specialist periodontist, Dr Lizzy Hui manages the gum and bone foundation — including grafting if needed — to give implants the best chance of lasting.
How successful are dental implants?
Dental implants have high long-term success rates when placed in healthy, well-maintained mouths. Success depends on adequate bone, good gum health, not smoking, and ongoing maintenance — all of which a periodontist helps optimise.
How long does the implant process take?
It varies. After placement, the implant usually needs a few months to integrate with the bone before the final tooth is attached; some cases allow faster timelines. Any grafting or gum treatment beforehand can add time. You'll get a personalised timeline at your consultation.
Why see a periodontist for dental implants?
Periodontists specialise in the gum and bone that support teeth and implants, with advanced training in implant placement, grafting and peri-implant health. This expertise is especially valuable if you've had gum disease, bone loss, or a previous implant problem.

Related treatments & information

Enquiry form