Frequently Asked Questions

Most healthy adults are suitable for dental implants. Good gum health, adequate bone, and overall good general health are important. A consultation and 3D scan will confirm your suitability.

With proper care, dental implants can last 20 years or more, and often a lifetime. The crown may need replacement over time due to normal wear and tear.

Implant placement is usually performed under local anaesthetic and is generally well tolerated. For really nervous patients we do have the option of putting you to sleep with a general anaesthetic, but most patients manage very well with local. Most patients report mild discomfort for a few days, which is easily managed with standard pain relief which your dentist will help with.

The full process typically takes 3-4 months, depending on healing time and whether additional procedures such as bone grafting are needed. In some cases, teeth can be placed sooner. You can read more about the process for dental implants by clicking here.

Dental implants have a success rate of around 95–98%, making them one of the most reliable tooth replacement options available. They have now been used for over 60 years so there is good long term data on this.

The cost of a single dental implant generally ranges from $5,500 to $6,500, depending on complexity, if bone grafting is needed, and if a temporary tooth is required. A personalised treatment plan and quote will be created after we have assessed your case. See more on our pricing page by clicking here.

Implants are often considered the gold standard because they are fixed in place, preserve jawbone, and do not rely on neighbouring teeth for support. They are also less bulky in the mouth so your tongue doesn’t feel like it has to fight for space.

Leaving a gap can lead to bone loss, shifting teeth, bite problems, and changes in facial appearance over time. Replacing missing teeth helps maintain oral health and function.

Dental implants are cared for just like natural teeth—regular brushing, flossing, and professional dental check-ups and hygiene cleans are essential to long-term success.

Smoking increases the risk of implant failure. While smokers can still be treated, reducing or stopping smoking before and after surgery significantly improves outcomes and the success rates for your treatment.

Yes. Implant-supported teeth are designed to match your natural teeth in shape, colour, and function, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. The crown on an implant is custom made for your specific situation.

Most implants are made from medical-grade titanium, which is highly biocompatible and bonds well with bone. Dental implant crowns are made from a combination of hidden titanium parts for strength and ceramic parts for a natural, cosmetic appearance.

There is no upper age limit. As long as growth has finished and the patient is medically suitable, implants can be placed at almost any age. We normally refrain from placing implants in people under 21 years old, it is best to wait until the face and bone have fully matured for optimal results.

Bone grafting is used when there is insufficient jawbone to support an implant. Not all patients need it, and modern techniques often minimise or avoid grafting. A consultation and assessment will allow your dentist to determine if it is required in your case.

Initial healing usually takes 1–2 weeks, with full integration of the implant into the bone taking normally 3 months.

While uncommon, implants can fail due to infection, poor healing, smoking, or excessive bite forces. Careful planning and good oral hygiene greatly reduce this risk.

Most New Zealand dental insurance policies offer limited or partial cover for implants. Standard private medical insurance normally doesn’t. We recommend checking with your insurance provider, and our team can assist with documentation.

Yes. After the healing period, you can enjoy a normal diet without the restrictions often associated with dentures.

The best way to find out is through a consultation, including an examination and digital imaging, to create a treatment plan tailored to your needs and budget. We offer that free of charge so come and say hi and meet one of our implants dentists. We look forward to caring for you.