Dental implants in Morningside | Replace missing teeth

A dental implant is a fixed (or non-removable) way of replacing one or more missing teeth.

Made from medical-grade titanium, a dental implant is surgically inserted into the jaw bone to create an artificial root. After placement, healthy bone grows around the implant, anchoring it in place in a process called ‘osseointegration’.

Following successful osseointegration, the implant can support a crown, denture, or bridge.

At Richmond Road Dental, we refer our patients to dental specialists for implant placement, as it involves surgery requiring highly technical skills and specialised training. In most cases, the patients are referred back to us for the final stage of treatment; fitting dental crowns, bridges, or dentures to the implant.

Benefits of dental implants

Dental implants are very similar in size and shape to natural teeth, and most patients quickly adapt to their presence.

Dental implants don’t rely on adjacent teeth to hold them in place. This means they can be placed without trimming adjacent teeth to receive crowns. So, while the placement of implants is surgical, their presence has minimal impact on the other natural teeth.

Important to know

Treatment involving the placement of one or more dental implants can be complex and require extensive planning.
Dental implants cannot be used in all situations.
- They are seldom used when treating children or teenagers.
- They cannot be placed unless enough healthy jawbone is available to anchor them securely.
- For various reasons, some patients may not be good candidates for surgery.
The placement of dental implants is a surgical procedure that carries risks. Our dentists will explain the risks and benefits of surgical treatment in detail so each patient can make an informed decision about their treatment.
Dental implants, like natural teeth, must be kept clean and plaque-free. While the implant cannot decay, the gums are still vulnerable to periodontal disease. Many dental implants can be cleaned with daily toothbrushing and flossing, while others need additional cleaning techniques that our dentists will explain.
This page contains general information about dental implants. It cannot replace individualised advice from your dental practitioner. Please consult your dentist for specific recommendations about your oral health and necessary treatments.