Single Tooth Implants in South West Rocks, Kempsey & Coffs Harbour

With proper care, dental implants can last 20 years or longer, and many last a lifetime. The crown on top may need replacing eventually due to normal wear, but the implant itself is designed for long-term use.

Success depends on good oral hygiene, regular dental checkups, and avoiding habits that damage teeth like grinding or chewing ice. Implants can fail due to infection or bone loss, which is why maintaining healthy gums and bone is essential.

The surgery is performed under local anaesthetic, so you shouldn’t feel pain during the procedure. You’ll feel pressure and movement, but not sharp pain. Some practices offer sedation if you’re particularly anxious.

After the anaesthetic wears off, you’ll likely experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising for a few days. Over-the-counter pain relief usually manages this well. Most people say the discomfort is less than they expected and manageable throughout recovery.

An implant replaces just the missing tooth without affecting neighbouring teeth. A bridge requires grinding down the teeth on either side of the gap to support the replacement tooth, which removes healthy tooth structure and cannot be reversed.

Implants also help preserve jawbone because they function like natural tooth roots. Bridges don’t prevent bone loss beneath the replacement tooth. While bridges can be completed faster, implants often last longer and don’t put additional strain on neighbouring teeth.