Single & Multiple Implants

All about Dental Implants

If you are missing one or more teeth, then dental implants may be the answer. They are also the simplest and easiest way to replace problem teeth, they look natural and work as intended.

We understand the pain and frustration that you may be experiencing from having broken or missing teeth. Dr Helen is committed to repairing your natural teeth, but this is not always an option. So whether you’ve lost or damaged a tooth due to decay, injury, gum disease, or another factor, the best option for you may be a single implant or multiple dental implants.

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a titanium “root” used to support a porcelain tooth replica or a group of teeth. A typical implant consists of a fixture made of commercially pure titanium, which after three months, fuses to your jaw bone, in much the same way a replacement hip or knee does. A porcelain tooth (or teeth) is then attached to the implant or denture, locking it into place.

Should I get dental implants?

When considering dental implant surgery, most patients are unaware that their dentist will most likely refer them to one or more specialists at different stages of their treatment. This can be time-consuming, expensive and stressful. For long-term success, it’s important that the dentist you select to fit your implants understands and is qualified to handle all phases of implant treatment. As a graduate of the Brener Implant Institute, Dr Helen is extensively trained to perform all aspects of implant dentistry and with her surgical team can offer a solution that’s right for you. Some things to consider:

Dental implants provide many advantages over dentures.
Dentures can easily move or break, whereas dental implants are fixed into your jaw-bone.
Implants look and feel like natural teeth, restoring a beautiful smile and your ability to chew.
Implants provide a long-lasting, permanent solution to missing teeth.
Implants help support adjacent natural teeth from moving, preventing alignment problems.
Implants support and preserve bone in your mouth, unlike dentures, which can result in bone loss.

Are you ready to have confidence in your smile once again? Dr Helen can help to restore your smile with dental implants.

BEFORE & AFTERS

MELBOURNE’S LEADING COSMETIC DENTAL CENTRE

Which dental implant solution is right for you?

Dr. Helen can assist you in selecting the right dental implant solution for your needs. Typically, most patients decide on a dental implant solution that falls under one of three categories.

A single tooth implant

Multiple tooth implants

Full-mouth dental implants / Total teeth replacement

If you are missing a single tooth, or need to replace a damaged or rotten tooth, a single tooth dental implant may be the best approach. The process involves removal of your existing tooth and replacement with a titanium dental implant. This is then used to support a natural-looking porcelain tooth replica. Your adjacent natural teeth remain untouched.

If you have one or more non-adjacent teeth that need replacing, then multiple tooth implants are placed using the same approach as above.

If you require a full set of upper or lower replacement teeth, full mouth dental implants may be the solution for you. This a full bridge of permanent replacement teeth fixed on 4 or 6 implants.

Do I need dental implants?

If you are still considering dental implants, here are some more good reasons why they might be the right choice for you:

You have lost one or more of your original teeth.
You’re tired of wearing dentures, find dentures uncomfortable and they affect your mouth mobility.
You experience difficulty eating, particularly foods that require significant chewing.
Your teeth seem to be moving or do not line up
You want to improve your smile and feel comfortable showing your teeth.
You have missing teeth that are affecting how you sound when you talk.
Your teeth have changed your facial appearance.
You have receding gums or gum disease.

If you are missing a single tooth, multiple teeth, or are wearing dentures, contact the studio to discuss your options with Dr Helen.

Google Reviews

    
 
 
        
   Mark Norris 
 2023-09-11
 
 
  Dr Helen has always provided the highest quality dental care, coupled with her honesty and attention to detail I would highly recommend her to anyone requiring dental work
  
 
       
   A B 
 2023-09-05
 
 
  Dr Helen is lovely, professional and knowledgeable
  
 
       
   RK 
 2023-08-28
 
 
  A big thank you to Dr Helen and her team at Dr Helens Dental & Implant Studio for the great dental service provided involving my dental bone grafting and tooth implant.  I'm very pleased with the whole process from the initial informative consultation to walking out with a naturally appearing tooth implant many months later.
Dr Helen’s thoroughness and professionalism in her work ultimately resulted in a positive journey for me and I am recommending Dr Helens Dental & Implant Studio for anyone requiring dental services.
  
 
       
   Joanne Sinclair 
 2023-08-24
 
 
  MY IMPLANT JOURNEY
I have decided to share my implant journey hoping to help others in the decision-making process on dental implants.  We all have a different story but here is mine.
I had tried to maintain my own teeth but was at a point where I had lost a few and had multiple that had been repaired.
The day came when I was eating and heard the dreaded crunch!!  A front visible tooth had broken and fell out.  That sinking hollow feeling was instant.
I decided to look into full mouth implants, but where do I start? Like most people Google.
The gravity of this decision was overwhelming not only the financial but fear if not done right what then?  All my teeth would have been removed.  I needed to have confidence that I was going to have the best chance of a successful treatment.
I decided for me a local dentist was the right choice.  I felt I needed a personal approachable service.  I came across Dr Helens website after looking into her training and experience I began reading her articles.  It was evident to me that she cared for her patients and understood that everyone’s expectations and limitations were different.
I booked a consultation to discuss my options and a treatment plan.  Dr Helen was compassionate to my fear of the process and importantly listened to me explain the impact my tooth deterioration was having on my everyday life.
After examination I was given treatment options.  One key difference I noted was Dr Helens treatment plan included 2 sets of bridges.  The 1st temporary bridges 3-5 days post-surgery, then 5 months later once my jaw had healed, I would receive another full set of bridges.
Dr Helen was happy to discuss and answer any questions I had.  I felt she understood the enormity of the decision and didn’t rush me in any way.
The outcome of this initial consultation was:
1. Treatment options given
2. Advised scan was needed to address variables such as bone density.
3. Advised of possible complications and how these would be addressed.
4. Provided with estimation of costs and referral for scan.
The procedure required a general anesthetic, fortunately this is done at Dr Helens practice.
The anesthetist contacted me and provided all relevant information.
On the day of surgery, it was reassuring to walk in and know my surroundings and everyone.  It was the usual friendly greeting I had come to know from Dr Helen and her staff.  Dr Helen made sure I was ok and again gave me the opportunity to ask any questions.
I went home that night with medications and reassurance to contact the practice If I had any questions or concerns.
Post surgery I was never in pain or discomfort.
Five days later I returned to have my temporary bridges fitted.
I now had a smile I had not had for many years.  It affected everything.  I was happy all the time.   I had my confidence back.  I think because my dental problems were a gradual decline, I knew it was impacting my wellbeing but had underestimated just how much.
Five months later with my jaw healed and my implants fused it was time for my final bridges.
1st was a trial fitting giving Dr Helen and myself the opportunity to discuss and request any adjustments to the laboratory.
Final fitting.  My temporary bridges were removed, and the final bridges screwed in place.  I didn’t think there could be much improvement. I was very happy with my temporary bridges however the fit was amazing.  They feel like my natural teeth.   Being at the end of this journey I now understand the importance of 2 sets of bridges. Yes, I was happy with my temporary bridges, but my final bridges fit and feel amazing.
I have no hesitation in recommending Dr Helen for your dental needs.  She is genuine, kind, compassionate, non-judgmental and very approachable.  I feel I was given detailed honest information on available options for my dental needs and the opportunity to discuss and make informed decisions on my treatment. I am extremely grateful to Dr Helen.
  
 
       
   PL 
 2023-08-20
 
 
  I don't have a lot to add to the very positive reviews other than say my experience with Dr Helen has been excellent.  This was for some complex work . The clinic is popular so an appt can take some time, though the staff have fitted me when an emergency occured.
  
 
       
   Irina Gavrish 
 2023-08-07
 
 
  I don't have the words to describe what a life changing experience having implants is. It's like being given a second chance in life. I lost all my teeth due to my fear of dentists. I would avoid going to a dentist until another tooth had to come out. Eventually I had almost none left. I tried to wear full dentures but I just couldn't eat with them as they rubbed and moved so much. I contemplated implants for so long but because of my fear, I just couldn't make the first step.  When I met Dr Helen she put my mind at ease. She reassured me with honesty and explained what to expect. I felt comfortable and cared for. So I did go ahead with all on 4 implants. It wasn't easy but I don't regret my decision for a moment as I can now eat like I used to many years ago, and don't have to cover my mouth anymore. I can't say enough how well Dr Helen and her team looked after me. She is so approachable but professional. I had many questions and concerns and she made sure they were all attended too. She was available whenever I needed help, even after hours. I've been to many dentists in my life, and sadly I developed a phobia as a result, which was hard to shake, but this place is not like other dentists. Dr Helen really cares about her patients. You are not just a number. Unlike my previous experiences, she went well and truly out of her way to make sure I was comfortable. Her expertise and honesty paid off in the end as I followed her advice, and I couldn't be happier. I can't thank Dr Helen and her lovely team enough. My new smile has trully changed my life.
  
 
       
   Aurelija Navakas 
 2023-07-26
 
 
  I would highly recommend Dr. Helen for cosmetic dentistry.
Dr. Helen is a talented dental specialist with a genuine concern for her patients.
I had an open discussion with Dr. Helen regarding my treatment, she gave me honest answers about what can & can't be achieved with the goal of achieving the best outcome for her patients.
Her workmanship not only achieved but exceeded my expectations.
I always dreamt since I was a child to have a perfect smile; Thank you Dr. Helen for making my dreams come true!
  
 
       
   Danielle Goonetilleke 
 2023-07-26
 
 
  Really pleased with my first visit - all questions answered and super friendly. Thank you for your help.
  
 
  
  
 
 
   Google rating score: 4.9 of 5, based on 148 reviews

Benefits of Dental Implants

There are so many benefits to restoring your mouth with dental implants. Here are some of our favourites.

You can eat anything you want with implants.

Implants are secured in the bone beneath the gum just like your natural teeth, which means they can withstand the force of chewing things that dentures can’t—nuts, crunchy fruits and vegetables, you name it! Chewing hard foods can be painful on dentures because they’re supported by your gum and not the bone, and it can lead to unnecessary wear and tear on remaining teeth who have to bear the brunt of the chewing duty.

Implants can actually be more cost-effective than a denture.

The cost of dental implants may seem considerably higher when compared to the cost of a denture. However, even great dentures wear down and often need to be repaired every few years. Most people replace their dentures every ten years or so. Implants don’t generally need repair or replacement as they’re surgically inserted into bone–saving you thousands in a lifetime, especially if only one or two teeth need an implant.

Implants don’t cause ulcers or rubbing.

Implant surgery is done under local or general anaesthesia, and once healed, feel like natural teeth. Dentures often rub and pinch, causing painful ulcers that can affect eating, speaking, and everyday life.

Dental Implants look natural

The process of dental implantology has advanced greatly in recent years, such that the materials and process used results in teeth that look almost identical to natural teeth.

Implants improve your smile and facial appearance

Clearly patients are looking forward to smiling once again with a full set of beautiful and natural-looking teeth, that fills in tooth or teeth gaps or replace dentures and damaged teeth.

Implants will also mean that Dr Helen will have had the opportunity to customise the size and shape of your new teeth, to align with and fit your jaw, resulting in improved oral hygiene, as well as improvements in jaw and gum health.

How Much Does it Cost?

One implant tooth replacement

$5000 - $5500 (EACH)

Two or more teeth replacement

$4500 - $5500 (EACH)

All on X (Upper or Lower)

$25000 - $30000

How long will it take to get dental implants?

A common question we get asked by our patients trying to decide the best timeframe to plan their implant surgery is how long they can expect to be off work after implant surgery. It’s a great question, and most patients are surprised to hear that in some cases, they can expect to go back to work the very next day!

The recovery time varies depending on what type of implant surgery is being done and how extensive it is. For individual dental implants or bone grafting surgery, the surgery is minimally invasive and patients can return to work the next day with little to no discomfort.

For bigger procedures, such as complete teeth replacement or other implant procedures where we replace all teeth with implants and fixed bridges, we generally recommend that a patient takes about a week off of work. There can be bruising and swelling after the surgery, as well as some minor recovery expected after being under general anaesthesia if required.

The good news is that we prescribe medications before the surgery that help alleviate any pain, swelling and discomfort during the healing time, making the recovery time as easy as possible on our patients.

Please click on the FAQ links below to view.

If your question is not answered below you can contact Dr Helen directly with your question by filling out our enquiry form here.

Are all dental implants successful?

Implants have a very high chance of success in a healthy patient who takes care of their general and dental health. There are, however, some factors that can compromise the successful placing of an implant. These include medical disease, excessive smoking or alcohol consumption and poor diet or dental hygiene.

Will Implants Last a Lifetime?

With good care, there is a very high chance an implant will last a lifetime.

Is Age a Deterrent?

Health is the determining factor, not age. In fact implants are most often needed later in life after losing some teeth.

Is it Expensive?

Implant procedures vary in complexity and extent. Depending on the patient’s dental and medical circumstances, implant procedures can involve a significant financial outlay. I have a high success rate and many very satisfied patients.

Will My Health Fund Pay?

This will depend on the level of your cover. We are happy to make enquiries on your behalf with your individual health fund.

Will there be Discomfort?

As with any surgery, there can be some degree of pain or discomfort. However, modern anaesthetics virtually eliminate all pain during and after the procedure.

How much time will it take?

This depends on your individual circumstances and the extent of work involved. There will usually be a series of procedures and follow-up visits over a period of some months.

How long will I be off work?

Generally patients can resume work the day after the procedure. In some cases you may experience some swelling, discomfort, or minor bruising.

How do you select a dentist for your implant treatment?

In recent years, to meet market demands and reduce fees, many dentists have turned to lower quality, often overseas made implants. As a result, we are seeing higher failure rates, poorly fitting crowns and less aesthetically pleasing results.

When you shop around for best prices, you will find a dramatic variation in fees between dentists. Most people aren’t aware of how low prices are achieved. Several factors need to be considered in making your choice.

What is an implant?

A dental implant is a titanium “root” used to support a porcelain tooth replica or a group of teeth. A typical implant consists of a fixture made of commercially pure titanium, which after three months fuses to your jaw bone, much like a replacement hip or knee would. A porcelain tooth or teeth is then attached to the implant or denture, locking it into place.

Implant success and technical considerations

Generally a well-planned and expertly executed implant procedure has success rates in the order of 98% and most people could expect a dental implant to last for life. Implants rely on their support from adequate bone thickness and quality. However, a poorly placed or angulated implant or an implant squeezed into an area of insufficient bone, to save you money, has high risk of failure. Implants don’t fail quickly. They can take 10 years to deteriorate. Unfortunately as they fail slowly and painlessly they can cause bone dissolution at the same time. At the time of failure, there is usually insufficient bone to replace it and reparative procedures will cost you thousands, negating any savings you would’ve made in the first place. When people need a hip replacement or a kidney operation, they usually look for a good surgeon. It is important to understand that implants are not a commodity, but a delicate surgical procedure that needs to be performed by a highly qualified surgeon for long term success.

Despite popular belief, implant brand rarely determines the success of the procedure. Most modern, well respected brands manufacture high quality implants. Success is in the hands of the operator.

Implant supported crown

The tooth replica or the crown also needs to satisfy a number of requirements. It needs to be proportionate to the length and size of your implant as to not overload it and be made of high quality pure materials to prevent fractures and corrosion. It also must look like a natural tooth and fit snugly between adjacent teeth so there are no hard-to-reach areas where food can become trapped and cause infection. It must also satisfy comfort and functionality requirements.

All of this might sound quite straightforward, but in fact a crown is a well-crafted piece of dental engineering requiring great technical skill and talent on the part of both dentist and the dental technician. Great care, skill, time and honesty will determine whether you end up with a superior long-term result or a mediocre crown. The laboratory technician needs to be up-to-date with modern methods of manufacture, and comfortable working with the latest materials. These technicians are hard to come by even in Australia and their work is not cheap.

Practicality

When considering implant treatment, most patients are unaware that they will most likely be referred by their dentist to one or more specialists at different stages of their treatment. This can be time consuming, expensive and stressful. For long-term success, it’s important that the dentist you select to do your implants understands, and is qualified to handle all aspects of implant treatment.

Even more alarming is the trend of going overseas to have dental treatment done. We receive several phone calls a week from people with overseas-made disasters. Once again you will reap immediate savings but after numerous trips, airfares, the cost will often come close to what you’d expect to pay in Australia. There are many skilled surgeons around the world. However, if you have any complications such as infection, crown loosening or failure, there is often no one equipped to deal with these conditions in Australia as systems used overseas are often different. Also, financially it is entirely your responsibility.

Quality

Most people are unaware that some dentist send their work directly to China; cutting out the middle man. Others use local Australian laboratories that outsource work to China. This creates the impression that the work is Australian made when it’s not.

Metals and porcelain used for veneers and crowns vary greatly in quality. This information is not freely available to the public, but to somebody who is having the procedure done, this can mean the difference is between success and failure. In addition, lead contamination has been implicated in overseas made crowns. As with most things, quality will be reflected in price.

I always encourage people to do their own research. However, no matter how thorough your research is, results are entirely in the hands of the professionals you choose.

Summary

When selecting a dentist to do your implants, be cautious and don’t let the lowest price influence you. Please consider all variables when evaluating value for money, such as the integrity and skill of the practitioner and technician, in addition to the quality of materials. Long term success should always drive your decision.

For stringent quality control, our work is crafted by a leading Australian laboratory from superior materials to ensure that what goes into your mouth is of the highest standard.”

If you have any further questions or concerns, please call our office on 9510 5597. With extensive training and experience in implant procedures, we will assist you in making your decision.

COSMETIC DENTISTRY

Dental Anxiety Services

General Dentistry

Single & Multiple Implants

All about Dental Implants

What is a dental implant?

Should I get dental implants?

BEFORE & AFTERS

MELBOURNE’S LEADING COSMETIC DENTAL CENTRE

Which dental implant solution is right for you?

A single tooth implant

Multiple tooth implants

Full-mouth dental implants / Total teeth replacement

Do I need dental implants?

Google Reviews

Benefits of Dental Implants

You can eat anything you want with implants.

Implants can actually be more cost-effective than a denture.

Implants don’t cause ulcers or rubbing.

Dental Implants look natural

Implants improve your smile and facial appearance

How Much Does it Cost?

One implant tooth replacement

$5000 - $5500 (EACH)

Two or more teeth replacement

$4500 - $5500 (EACH)

All on X (Upper or Lower)

$25000 - $30000

Smoking & dental Implants: What you need to know before having dental implants!

How do I take care of my dental implants at home?

Advantage of Dental Implants Over Bridges

2023 UPDATE – How much do implants cost in Australia and does Insurance help?

Watch how Peter’s life has been transformed: needle phobia and diabetes

Full Mouth Dental Implants: Goran’s Journey

Dental Implant Before and After: My Life-Changing Dental Transformation

Sharon’s journey at Dr Helen’s Dental & Implant Studio

How long before I can go back to work after implant surgery?

How does a dentist choose a dental implant?

I’ve been told I can’t have implants; is that true?

Will implants help me chew?

Pros and Cons of Dental Implants

Should I get cemented or screw-retained dental implants?

What does a dental implant feel like?

How do I maintain my implants following surgery?

Is everyone suitable to undergo implant surgery?

How much recovery time is required after implant surgery?

When should I consider dental implants?

What is the difference between implants and dentures?

How long will it take to get dental implants?

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