Why do people consider tooth replacement?
Replacing missing teeth is not just about appearance. It can help with chewing, maintaining alignment of remaining teeth and supporting long-term oral health.
It can happen for different reasons, such as:
- Gum disease
- Tooth decay
- Injury or trauma
- Medical conditions
To explore tooth replacement options further, you can book a consultation to discuss your needs.
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What options are available in Australia?
In Australia, there are three main approaches dentists may recommend for tooth replacement. Each has its own process, considerations and maintenance needs.
Dental Implants
- A titanium post is surgically placed in the jawbone to act as a root substitute.
- An abutment connects the post to a crown, bridge, or denture.
- Healing (osseointegration) usually takes several months before the final restoration.
- Risks: Infection, implant failure, sinus issues, nerve involvement.
- Durability: Many years, provided ongoing care and maintenance.
Dental Bridges
- A bridge uses the surrounding teeth as anchors for a replacement tooth.
- The supporting teeth are often shaped to hold the bridge.
- Bridges may replace one or more teeth in a row.
- Risks: Increased wear on supporting teeth, decay around anchors.
- Durability: Around 10–15 years with good care.
Dentures
- Removable prostheses that replace several or all teeth in an arch.
- Can be partial (some teeth) or full (entire upper or lower jaw).
- Implant-supported dentures may offer more stability.
- Risks: Irritation, looseness, adjustments or relining over time.
- Durability: Typically 5–10 years, depending on fit and use.
What factors affect suitability?
A dentist will look at several factors before recommending the most suitable approach, including:
- Jawbone and gum health
- The condition of nearby teeth
- General health and healing ability
- Lifestyle factors, such as smoking, may affect recovery
How much does tooth replacement cost?
Costs can vary depending on:
- The number of teeth being replaced
- The type of treatment or prosthesis
- The materials used
- Any additional procedures that may be required
Some patients may be eligible to apply for early release of superannuation funds to cover essential dental care, subject to approval by the Australian Taxation Office (ATO).
Addressing the Burning Questions Behind the Process of Full Arch Dental Implants
How do the options compare?
| Option | Fixed or Removable | Surgery Required | Key Considerations | Typical Durability* |
| Implants | Fixed | Yes | Requires healthy bone; long healing | Many years |
| Bridges | Fixed | No | Impacts supporting teeth | 10–15 years |
| Dentures | Removable | No (except implant-supported) | May need adjustments over time | 5–10 years |
*Durability varies depending on oral health, maintenance, and individual factors.
Engineering Smile Longevity with Fixed-on-X®
At FoX Implant Centre, we provide a comprehensive approach to dental implant procedures where every step of the process is handled in-house, from the initial consultation to fitting your replacement teeth.
What about risks and recovery?
Every procedure carries risks. These may include:
- Discomfort, swelling, or bruising
- Infection or delayed healing
- Need for adjustments or replacements over time
Implant failure in rare cases
Important: All surgical and invasive procedures carry risks. Before proceeding, seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
What’s the first step?
If you’re exploring tooth replacement options, the first step is a consultation with a registered dental practitioner. They can:
- Examine your mouth and oral health
- Outline suitable treatment options
- Discuss risks, recovery, and alternatives
- Provide cost and timeline information
Booking a consultation in Melbourne, Brisbane or Adelaide can give you a clearer understanding of which tooth replacement option may be suitable for your needs.
FAQ
There isn’t one option that suits everyone. The right choice depends on your oral health, the number of teeth missing, and your individual circumstances. Common approaches include full mouth implants, bridges and dentures. A dentist can explain how each works and help you understand which may be most appropriate for you.
The cost of treatment varies depending on the type of replacement, the number of teeth involved and the materials used. Dentures generally have a lower initial cost, while bridges and implants may involve a higher investment. Your dentist can provide a tailored cost outline and explain any payment pathways, including possible access to superannuation for essential treatment.
Recovery depends on the treatment chosen and your individual healing response. Dentures and bridges usually require a short adjustment period. Implants involve a longer phase where the bone heals around the implant, which may take several months. Your dental team will explain expected timelines, risks, and what to look out for during recovery.
Suitability for dental implants depends on several factors, such as jawbone health, gum condition, and your overall medical history. In some cases, additional procedures like bone grafting may be required before implants can be considered. A dentist can carry out an assessment and explain whether implants may be an option for you.
Yes, the approach differs. A single tooth may be replaced with an implant or a bridge. For multiple or all missing teeth, options may include dentures, implant-supported dentures, or several implants. Your dentist will tailor recommendations to the number of teeth being replaced and your overall oral health.
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