Dentist near Ledge Point

Why a gap is worth thinking about

A missing back tooth can seem like no big deal. Over time, though, the teeth either side can tip into the space, the tooth above or below can drift towards it, and chewing shifts onto the other teeth. It doesn't happen to everyone, but it's worth talking about before it does.

Ways to replace missing teeth

• Dental implant — a titanium post placed in the jawbone, with a crown on top. It doesn't involve the teeth either side, but it needs enough healthy bone and takes several visits over a few months.
• Bridge — a false tooth held by crowns on the teeth either side of the gap. Usually two visits, but those neighbouring teeth need to be shaped.
• Partial denture — a removable plate with one or more false teeth. Usually the quickest and least expensive option, and easy to add to later.
• Full denture — for replacing all the teeth in one jaw. Implants can sometimes be used to help hold a denture steady.

Smoking, diabetes and some medicines can affect healing, especially with implants, so we'll go through your health history first.

Working out what suits you

We start with a check-up and X-rays, then talk through the options that suit your mouth, your health and your budget. You'll get a written estimate for each, with item numbers to check with your health fund, and how many visits each would take — useful to know when you're coming from Ledge Point.

The town grew from three squatters' shacks and was gazetted in 1955. The Gilt Dragon, a Dutch East India Company ship, was wrecked on the reef nearby in 1656. From town it's Ledge Point Road out to Indian Ocean Drive, then south to us.

Getting here from Ledge Point

1. Take Ledge Point Road out to Indian Ocean Drive.
2. Turn right onto Indian Ocean Drive and head south for about 53 km, past the Seabird and Guilderton turn-offs.
3. Turn right onto Breakwater Drive into Two Rocks.
4. Turn into Constellation Entrance at the roundabout on Breakwater Drive — we're at number 6.

Questions from Ledge Point