It is a frightening statistic that in this day and age it is reported that one in twenty-five people in Australia have none of their own teeth left. It is no wonder when it is also reported that fifty per cent of Australians do not brush their teeth the minimum of twice a day. There is no excuse for poor oral hygiene and there is no reason to have to suffer trying to eat with dentures and bridges or with no teeth at all. Dental implants Bondi Junction have become extremely popular as more and more people see the benefits of this amazing treatment.
No longer a complex procedure?
We are all aware of how much technology has affected our lives with smartphones and personal computers. Dental science and technology have combined to produce numerous new products and techniques that enhance dental care. Modern dental implants were invented way back in the 1950s and science has been working hard to perfect the procedure with incredible results. Once considered a difficult and complex procedure, technological advancements and tried and tested techniques honed over decades have meant dental implants are now considered a routine procedure.
What are dental implants?
The concept works on the same basis as our normal teeth, by having a tooth with a root fixed into our jawbone. Dentures and bridges rest on top of the gums or are fixed to adjacent teeth. These require regular maintenance and are not always stable especially when trying to chew food. A dental implant has a root, referred to as a post, set into the jawbone and a prosthetic tooth which is attached to an abutment on top of the post which acts as the root. The advantage of this system is that it mimics our natural teeth and is stable even when eating.
Australians are lining up for dental implants
It is estimated that over three million Australians have a dental implant and this has fuelled the need for technology to continue advancing. More and more Australians are opting for this permanent tooth replacement treatment. Imaging technology has advanced rapidly and one of the areas that required attention was the ability for the dentist to evaluate the bone structure of the jawbone. The latest cone-beam scans overcome this problem and now allow the dentist to accurately diagnose the density of the bone before the operation.
Patient information, discussion and planning
Allowing patients to make informed decisions regarding their dental treatment relies on accurate information and dentists are now in a position to provide that information. The latest software provides the dentist with the tools to be able to do a digital implant plan designed around each specific patient. New techniques in removing decaying teeth have resulted in less bone loss which means that a greater portion of the bone mass is retained. Digital intraoral X-rays now allow the dentists to produce a high-definition image with clear detail and less exposure to X-ray radiation.
Get that smile back
Of course, prevention is key to maintaining healthy teeth and gums, but if it is too late to save a tooth or one is lost due to an accident then it is good to know that a solid alternative is available.
Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
