Are you looking to replace missing teeth?

Frequently Asked Questions

• 1. Are payment plans available to replace missing teeth?

  Yes, at Trusted Dental we offer multiple payment plans from 6 to 36 months. These payment plans are interest free and often no deposit is required*. In some instances, superannuation can also be released to assist with the replacement of missing teeth.

• 2. Is one dental implant required to replace each missing tooth?

  Although it is ideal to replace each missing tooth with one dental implant, often multiple teeth can be replaced using two or more implants. Every situation is different, though, and some investigation is required to determine how many implants will be required. The number will depend on how many teeth are missing. More information is available in our comprehensive dental implant guide or from your dentist.

• 3. How long will it take to replace missing teeth using dental implants?

  This depends on the quality of the jawbone and also if teeth have to be removed prior to dental implant surgery.
  Usually if the teeth have already been removed and already missing after 3-4 months the implant retained tooth will be in place. This time is needed to make sure bone has completely attached to the dental implant.

• 4. Can a broken/cracked unsavable tooth be replaced immediately using a dental implant?

  Yes, it is possible to remove and replace the tooth immediately with a dental implant. However, your dentist needs to investigate thoroughly to make sure this is a good approach and won’t affect the long-term success of your dental implant.

• 5. What is the cost of replacing a missing tooth using a dental implant on the Gold Coast?

  Depending on the complexity and position of the dental implant, the cost is about $2,250 to $2,750 for stage one, which is the implant (fixture screw) placement in the jawbone. The fee is usually the same for the second stage, when the final crown is screwed on top of the dental implant. The total cost is approximately $4750 to $5250, depending on the location of the missing tooth/teeth and the bone quality.

• 6. How many teeth can be replaced using a dental bridge?

  Ideally, a dental bridge replaces one tooth or a maximum of two teeth. However, in some circumstances, a longer span bridge is possible. The decision will depend on factors such as the quality of the teeth on each side of the bridge, location in the mouth, and the direction of chewing forces.

• 7. I have a dental bridge. How is it possible to clean/floss under the false teeth that have replaced the missing teeth?

  Although a dental bridge is designed so that the risk of a food trap is minimal, regular cleaning under the false tooth/teeth is required to keep the gums and adjacent teeth healthy. This is normally achieved using special small brushes (interdental brushes) and a special floss (super-floss).
  Your dentist at Trusted Dental Gold Coast will give you a through demonstration of how to clean under your dental bridge.

• 8. What is the cost to replace missing teeth on the Gold Coast using a dental bridge?

  The cost of a dental bridge depends on the size of the gap, the number of teeth being replaced and the material used.
  Generally, the cost of a two-unit dental bridge is $2,750; a three-unit bridge, $4,500; and a four-unit bridge, $5,500.

• 9. What is the best option to replace missing teeth on the Gold Coast?

  Dental implants are considered by far the best option to replace missing teeth. Under some circumstances, however, a dental implant may not be suitable. In these situations, a dental bridge or dentures may be more suitable.

• 10. What happens if missing teeth are not replaced?

  Apart from the cosmetics and lost ability to chew on the missing teeth, below are some of the most common negative consequences of not replacing missing teeth:

  • The teeth adjacent to the missing area will often move and tilt towards the gap. This can change the whole bite pattern and lead to further complications and food packing.
  • Often, missing teeth lead to visible facial collapse, which creates noticeable change in the cheek area.
  • The opposing tooth to the missing tooth area will often start to move towards the gap (super-eruption), leading to unfavourable changes in contact with the adjacent teeth, and food packing and a higher chance of tooth decay.

• 11. I am having some teeth removed. What is the best time to replace the missing teeth?

  It is best to replace missing teeth within the first year. This is particularly true when teeth are replaced using dental implants as the loss of bone after teeth removal is greatest in the first year. This also minimizes the risk of the unfavourable changes outlined in question 9.

• 12. Can I use my superannuation to replace missing teeth?

  Yes, depending on your individual situation, you can use your super to improve your oral health. The release of super is subject to approval and has a process which our friendly team at Trusted Dental will happily assist you with.

• 13. What are the advantages and disadvantages of dentures?

  The main advantages of dentures are the lower cost and the greater ease of adding teeth and repair. It is often a more affordable option compared to fixed options; however, it comes with some disadvantages.

  The main disadvantages of dentures are:

  • Excessive forces on anchorage teeth (partial dentures) can lead to bone loss, gum disease and often mobility of these teeth, which can lead to early loss of these teeth.
  • The retentive arms on anchorage teeth and under the base of dentures can become trap areas for food and dental plaque. This can lead to tooth decay and gum disease. Extra oral hygiene measures are needed to keep these areas clean.
  • Dentures (especially full lower dentures) often provide poor retention. It can be embarrassing if they move when talking or can make chewing food difficult.
  • Poorly designed dentures can lead to further bone loss.
  • Dentures need to be removed daily for thorough cleaning.

• 14. What are the advantages and disadvantages of dental bridges?

  Advantages of dental bridges:

  • A dental bridge is a fixed option which will not move during talking and chewing.
  • Strong and dependable for chewing and can stand chewing forces like normal teeth do.
  • Excellent cosmetic results.
  • Quick turnaround. A dental bridge can often be made as fast as one week to replace missing teeth.
    Main disadvantages of a dental bridge:
  • Needs preparation and modification of adjacent teeth. If these teeth are healthy and have no restorations, it is often much better to avoid dental bridges and consider a dental implant instead.
  • It can sometimes be difficult to clean under a dental bridge, especially at the back of the mouth.

• 15. What are the advantages and disadvantages of a dental implant to replace missing teeth?

  Dental implants are the gold standard for replacing missing teeth.

  The main advantages of dental implants are:

  • They don’t attach to any other teeth. They use the titanium screw in the bone similar to a natural tooth’s root as support.
  • They provide excellent aesthetic results like a natural tooth coming out of the gum.
  • The implant-supported crowns are very strong; it’s as easy to chew food as it is with natural teeth.
  • The dental implant supports the bone and prevents further bone loss and recession.

  
  Main disadvantages of a dental implant:

  • They require enough bone support to be placed. Sometimes, in severe jawbone loss situations, further grafting is required. This can lead to longer treatment times.
  • They generally require longer treatment times as the bone needs to fuse to the implant. It may take 3-4 months before the implant can be restored with a final crown.
  • They might not be suitable if certain medical conditions are present. Your dentist will discuss this in detail with you.