Missing a tooth changes more than your smile — it affects how you bite, how neighbouring teeth sit, and over time, the shape of your jaw itself. Dental implants are one of the most effective ways to replace a missing tooth, and at Fab Dental in Paddington, it’s a treatment we now offer for patients across Brisbane’s inner west.
If you’re considering an implant, here’s what the process actually involves.
What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium post that’s placed into the jawbone, acting as an artificial tooth root. Once it has fused with the bone — a process called osseointegration, which typically takes a few months — a custom-made crown is attached on top, giving you a replacement tooth that looks, feels and functions like a natural one.
Unlike a bridge, an implant doesn’t rely on the teeth either side of the gap for support. And unlike a denture, it’s fixed in place — no need to take it out at night or worry about it moving while you eat.
Why people choose implants
- They preserve your jawbone. When a tooth is lost, the bone underneath it gradually shrinks without something to stimulate it. An implant replaces that stimulation, helping maintain your natural jaw shape.
- They protect your other teeth. Because an implant doesn’t need to be anchored to neighbouring teeth (the way a traditional bridge does), those teeth aren’t altered or placed under extra load.
- They’re built to last. With good oral hygiene and regular check-ups, an implant can serve you well for many years.
- They feel like your own tooth. Most patients say that within a short time, they forget which tooth is the implant.
What’s involved, step by step
- Assessment. We take a look at your jawbone, gum health and overall dental history to confirm an implant is right for you. This sometimes includes a 3D scan to check bone volume.
- Placement. The titanium implant is placed into the jaw under local anaesthetic. Most patients describe this as similar to having a tooth removed — some soreness afterwards, managed with over-the-counter pain relief.
- Healing. Over the following months, the implant integrates with your bone. In some cases, a bone graft (with materials like Bio-Oss and Mucograft) is needed beforehand to build up the site.
- The crown. Once healing is complete, we attach a custom crown, colour-matched to your other teeth, and check your bite before you leave.
The full process, start to finish, generally takes a few months — mostly healing time rather than time in the chair.
Is an implant right for you?
Most healthy adults with enough bone in the jaw are good candidates. Factors we consider include your gum health, whether you smoke, and any conditions affecting healing (like uncontrolled diabetes). If there isn’t currently enough bone, that doesn’t necessarily rule an implant out — grafting can often build up the site first.
The best way to know is a consultation, where we can look at your specific situation and talk through whether an implant, a bridge, or another option suits you best.
Looking after your implant
An implant doesn’t get cavities, but the gum and bone around it need the same care as a natural tooth — regular brushing, cleaning between teeth, and check-ups so we can catch any early signs of gum inflammation around the implant site.
Cost and payment options
Implant costs vary depending on your individual case — whether a graft is needed, which tooth is involved, and your specific treatment plan. We are also a preferred providers for several major health funds. The clearest way to get an accurate figure is a consultation, where we can put together a personalised quote.
Common questions
Does getting an implant hurt?
The procedure is done under local anaesthetic, so you shouldn’t feel pain during placement. Afterwards, mild soreness is normal for a few days and is usually managed with standard pain relief.
How long do implants last?
With good oral hygiene and regular dental visits, implants are designed to be a long-term solution, though individual results vary.
Can anyone get an implant?
Most healthy adults are candidates, though factors like bone density, gum health and smoking can affect suitability — something we assess at your consultation.
What if I don’t have enough jawbone?
Bone grafting can often build up the site beforehand, making an implant possible where it otherwise wouldn’t be.
Book a consultation
If you’re missing a tooth and weighing up your options, we’re happy to talk you through what would work best for your situation. Call us on 07 3367 1999 or book online to arrange a consultation at our Paddington practice.
