Missing teeth can affect more than just your smile. They may impact the way you eat, speak, and feel about your overall appearance and confidence. For many patients, dental implants provide a long-term solution designed to restore both function and aesthetics.
At Sydney Dental Aesthetics & Implants, implant dentistry is a major focus of the practice. Located in Martin Place in the Sydney CBD, SDAI provides advanced implant assessment, planning, and treatment for patients with both straightforward and complex dental concerns.
Led by Dr Dean Licenblat, SDAI is also recognised internationally for implant education and training, with dentists across Australia referring patients for complex implant procedures and rehabilitation.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a modern method of replacing missing teeth using a small titanium or zirconia screw that acts as an artificial tooth root. The implant is placed into the jawbone where, over time, it integrates with the surrounding bone through a process called osseointegration. This creates a stable foundation for a replacement tooth or teeth.
Dental implants can support:
- A single crown
- Multiple teeth using a bridge
- Full-arch restorations or implant-supported dentures
Unlike removable dentures, implants are fixed in place and designed to function similarly to natural teeth.
How Do Dental Implants Work?
Dental implants are often described as a 3-part system:
Implant Fixture – The titanium or zirconia screw inserted into the jawbone that acts like a tooth root.
Abutment – The connector that joins the implant to the replacement tooth.
Crown – The visible custom-made tooth designed to look and function naturally.
Once healing is complete, the implant is designed to provide long-term stability and support for everyday chewing and speaking.
Who Are Dental Implants Suitable For?
Dental implants may be suitable for patients who:
- Have one or more missing teeth
- Want a long-term tooth replacement option
- Prefer a fixed solution instead of removable dentures
- Want to avoid preparing healthy adjacent teeth for a bridge
- Wish to preserve jawbone structure and facial support
Implants are commonly considered for people who have lost teeth due to:
- Dental decay
- Trauma or injury
- Periodontal (gum) disease
- Failed dental work or broken teeth
Many patients also choose implants because they are struggling with loose or uncomfortable dentures or want a more natural-feeling solution.
Who Might Not Be Suitable for Dental Implants?
Not every patient is immediately suitable for implant treatment. Additional preparation or medical management may sometimes be required.
Factors that may affect implant suitability include:
- Significant bone loss
- Certain uncontrolled medical conditions
- Heavy smoking
- Poor oral hygiene habits
- Active gum disease
In some cases, bone grafting or augmentation procedures may help prepare the jaw for implant placement. Suitability is always determined following comprehensive clinical assessment and imaging.
What to Expect During the Dental Implant Journey
The dental implant process typically occurs over several months and involves multiple stages. Every treatment plan is personalised depending on the patient’s oral health, bone structure, and restorative goals.
1. Initial Consultation
Your consultation with Dr Dean Licenblat may include:
- Comprehensive examination
- Digital X-rays and 3D imaging
- Review of medical and dental history
- Discussion of treatment options
- Assessment of bone quantity and quality
This appointment helps determine whether implants are suitable and whether additional procedures may be required.
2. Preparation Phase
Some patients may require preparatory procedures before implant placement, including:
- Tooth extraction
- Bone grafting or augmentation
- Gum grafting or sinus lifting procedures
These treatments may sometimes be performed before implant placement or at the same time, depending on the clinical situation.
3. Implant Placement Surgery
During surgery, the implant fixture is carefully placed into the jawbone.
At SDAI, implant placement is commonly performed under local anaesthetic, though IV (twilight) sedation and general anaesthetic options may also be available for suitable patients.
Most patients report only mild swelling or discomfort afterwards, which is generally manageable with medication and post-operative care instructions.
4. Healing & Osseointegration
Healing typically takes between 3-6 months, although more complex cases involving grafting may take longer. During this stage, the implant gradually fuses with the surrounding bone to create a secure foundation.
5. Final Restoration
Once healing is complete, a custom-designed crown, bridge, or denture is attached to the implant. The final restoration is designed to restore chewing function, aesthetics, and long-term durability.
Why Patients and Dentists Refer to Dr Dean Licenblat & SDAI
SDAI receives referrals from both patients and dental practitioners for implant assessment and management, particularly in complex cases involving:
- Severe bone loss
- Full-mouth rehabilitation
- Failed or broken implants
- Highly aesthetic implant cases
- Zirconia implant treatment
- Bone grafting and advanced reconstruction
Dr Dean Licenblat is recognised internationally for his contributions to implant dentistry and education.
About Dr Dean Licenblat
Dr Dean Licenblat is Principal Dentist at SDAI and has been practising in Sydney since 2007 with a focus on implant dentistry, bone grafting, and oral rehabilitation.
His qualifications and achievements include:
- Bachelor of Dentistry – University of Sydney
- Master’s Degree in Oral Implantology & Bone Grafting – Goethe University Frankfurt
- First Australian Diplomate of the American Board of Oral Implantology (ABOI)
- Fellow of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID)
- Fellow & Diplomate of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (ICOI)
Dr Licenblat is also:
- Head Lecturer & Founder of the Australasian Implant Academy
- The only Australian Examiner for the American Board of Oral Implantology
- A global lecturer and educator in implant dentistry
- A mentor to dentists both nationally and internationally
Over his career, Dr Licenblat has placed thousands of implants and educated more than 2,500 dentists. He is also recognised as one of the earliest and most experienced providers of modern zirconia implants in Australia.
Read more about Dr Dean Licenblat
Discuss Your Implant Options
Dental implants are not a one-size-fits-all treatment. Careful assessment, planning, and ongoing maintenance all play an important role in achieving successful long-term outcomes.
If you are considering dental implants and would like to understand your options, the team at SDAI can provide a personalised consultation based on your clinical needs and treatment goals.
To learn more or arrange an appointment, contact Sydney Dental Aesthetics & Implants in Martin Place, Sydney CBD on (02) 9233 3301.