Dental Implants

Dental Implants

Dental implants are small metal posts that allow for replacement teeth. They are positioned in your jawbone and kept in place as the bone develops around the implant (unlike dentures which can easily be removed).

There are different kinds of dental implants, and the necessary implants could be a single single-tooth replacement or a complete upper and lower arch replacement.

Our dentists will discuss the best options for you.

A Guide to a Brighter Smile

A dental implant is a small titanium post surgically placed into your jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. Once healed, a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture is securely attached to it. Implants are widely regarded as the closest substitute for natural teeth.

Your dentist may recommend an implant if you have one or more missing teeth, a tooth that cannot be saved, or a loose or uncomfortable denture. Implants are also a good option if you want a fixed, long-lasting replacement that avoids grinding down neighbouring teeth.

  • Look, feel, and function like natural teeth
  • Help preserve jawbone, which can shrink after tooth loss
  • High long-term survival rates of approximately 95-97%
  • No slipping or clicking, unlike removable dentures

Do not require altering adjacent healthy teeth

Treatment is carried out in stages over several months:

  1. Assessment: Thorough examination including X-rays or 3D scan to check bone health and plan treatment.
  2. Implant placement: The implant is placed into the jawbone under local anaesthetic. Most patients experience only mild discomfort.
  3. Healing (3-6 months): The implant integrates with the surrounding bone. A temporary tooth replacement may be provided.
  4. Final restoration: Once healed, a custom crown, bridge, or denture is attached to the implant.

Most healthy adults are suitable. Factors that may require additional planning include insufficient jawbone (bone grafting may be needed), smoking (which impairs healing), uncontrolled diabetes or prior head/neck radiotherapy, and active gum disease.

Implants require the same care as natural teeth. Poor oral hygiene can lead to peri-implantitis, an inflammation around the implant that may cause bone loss.

  • Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, especially around the gum line
  • Clean between teeth and around the implant daily with floss or interdental brushes
  • Attend regular dental check-ups and professional cleans
  • Avoid smoking
  • Discuss a night guard with your dentist if you grind your teeth

Dental implant surgery is well-established and safe. Potential risks include infection, temporary numbness, implant failure (not integrating with bone), and peri-implantitis if oral hygiene is not maintained. Your dentist will discuss all risks and benefits with you before treatment.

Your dentist will provide a written treatment plan and cost estimate before commencing. Ask about what your private health insurance may cover, as benefits vary between funds.

If you have any questions, please speak with your dental team.

At MedCentral Dental, We Accept All Health Funds!

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Dr Raymond AU

Principal Dentist

Speaks English and Vietnamese

Born and raised in Melbourne, Dr Raymond has spent several years working across both private and public practices in metropolitan Melbourne and rural Victoria. This diverse experience has strengthened his ability to connect with individuals and families from all walks of life, allowing him to deliver care that feels both personalised and accessible.

With a strong focus on family dentistry, Dr Raymond is experienced in both general and cosmetic dentistry, supporting patients at every stage of life. He is particularly proficient in wisdom teeth extractions, and has a special interest in clear aligner treatment and smile makeovers – including porcelain veneers, crowns and bridges.

Known for his calm and reassuring manner, Dr Raymond is especially attentive to patients who may feel anxious about dental visits. He creates a relaxed, supportive environment designed to ease concerns and build trust over time. His goal is to make every appointment a positive experience and believes that visiting the dentist should feel comfortable, not confronting.

Outside the practice, he enjoys travelling, playing tennis, and spending quality time with family and friends.

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Dr Emily Pow

Dr Emily was born in Melbourne and was raised in the local Knox area. She previously worked in private practices across Melbourne, and has worked for the public sector at the Royal Dental Hospital of Melbourne.

She also gained a significant amount of experience working previously as the Hospital Dental Officer at Monash Medical Centre where she treated medically compromised, special needs and cancer patients.

She enjoys most aspects of dentistry including cosmetic dentistry and working with children. She has a special interest in the area of orthodontics (braces, clear aligners and early intervention) and can provide Myobrace treatment.

Dr Emily is currently undergoing a Post Graduate Diploma in Orthodontics to further her passion in this area.

She loves helping her patients with clear aligner treatment so that they can smile confidently.

In her spare time, Dr Emily enjoys going out for good food, spending time with family and going on nature walks with her dog Chino.

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Dr Lilian Phu

Dr Lilian Phu graduated from the University of Melbourne with a Bachelor of Biomedicine (Honours) and Doctor of Dental Surgery. Her passion for helping people achieve their dental and oral health goals is reflected by the quality, care and attention she gives to each patient she encounters. Additionally, her friendly and bubbly nature will be sure to bring a smile on anyone’s face.

Dr Lilian is also a preclinical supervisor for dental students at Melbourne University, sharing her knowledge with the future generation of dentists.

In order to deliver the best dental care to her patients, she regularly attends continuing education courses and is currently undertaking a two-year postgraduate course in orthodontics. Dr Lilian has a special interest in implants and clear aligner treatment, and can talk to you about how you can improve your smile.

Outside of dentistry, she enjoys digital drawing and spending time with her loved ones including a dog and three cats.

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Dr Edward Wang

Speaks English

Education:

Edward is a kind and caring dentist who is dedicated to providing his patients with high quality dental care while prioritizing patient comfort to ensure that his patients have a positive experience.

Edward believes in taking a more patient-centered approach to dental care, whether it be by providing information to patients about prevention of dental disease, or by providing and explaining all available treatment options so that patients can be fully informed about their oral healthcare.

Outside of work, you’ll find Edward playing volleyball or in the kitchen as he enjoys cooking dishes from many different cuisines from around the world.

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