Dr. David Chua Answers Frequently Asked Questions about Dental Implants

We asked Dr. David Chua frequently common questions about dental implants and whether it’s the right treatment for patients with tooth problems. Read on to learn more.

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a titanium fixture that is secured into your jawbone in order to support artificial teeth.

What are dental implants made of?

The implants that we use at Generations Dental are made from Titanium and are manufactured in Germany.

Are dental implants safe?

Generally, yes. However, like any other treatment options, there are risks associated with implant therapy. However, with proper planning, these risks can be identified and mitigated.

When should I get an implant?

Usually, when patients are 21 years or older, they can consider implant therapy appropriate to replace a lost tooth. Implants are commonly placed from 8 – 12 weeks from when a tooth is removed. Sometimes it may be prudent to delay the implant therapy for 6 months after tooth extraction. It may also be possible, depending on the individual case, to place an implant immediately after a tooth extraction.

How long will dental implants last?

If good regular home care is provided and implants are maintained and monitored regularly by a dental professional, these implants can last for over 20 years.

What are the chances of implant failure?

An implant can fail for various reasons:

• Failure to integrate.
• Insufficient soft and hard tissue augmentation around the implant leading to unsightly exposure of the implant.
• Peri-implantitis - leading to bone loss.
• Fracture of the prosthetic components.
• Fracture of the implant itself.
• Poorly positioned implant due to inadequate planning.

These are risks that need to be assessed, considered, and discussed prior to implant therapy.

How long does the procedure take?

There are usually 3 visits involved in placing the implant:

• 1st visit – consultation and informed consent.
• 2nd visit – surgery to place the implant.
• 3rd visit – review post-surgery and removal of sutures if required.

Sometimes an additional 4th visit is required if the implant is initially not fitted tightly enough it to be secured.

The actual implant surgery will take between 1 to 2 hours in the dental chair. There are subsequent visits usually take 30 minutes to 1 hour each.

How to take care of your dental implants?

Proper care for dental implants involves:

• Regular brushing and flossing around the prosthesis/implant area with or without the use of mouthwashes.
• Regular dental visits and radiographs to check on the implant unit and its surrounding tissue (bones and gums). These visits also involve professional cleaning around the implant components to help keep plaque and bacteria levels to a minimum.

About Dr. David Chua

Dr. David graduated from the University of Melbourne in 1999. In 2003, he returned to the University of Melbourne to complete his Graduate Diploma in Clinical Dentistry, majoring in restorative dentistry. He trained under specialist endodontists, prosthodontists, and periodontists for a year before completing his fellowship in RACDS in 2004.

Prior to moving to Doncaster, Dr. David practiced in Williamstown for 17 years. Highly experienced in general dentistry, he also enjoys the challenges of orthodontics, endodontics and implantology. For him, the best part about the job is getting to know his patients and being able to see them grow and move along in life over many years. In his free time, Dr. David enjoys spending time with family and friends, being involved in the Rotary Club, and serving in his community church.