Dental implants surgeon Melbourne

Dental implants are a great solution for missing teeth, but they’re not always as straightforward as they seem. While many general dentists place implants, not every case is routine and straightforward.

Oral and maxillofacial surgeons are highly trained specialists with medical, dental, and surgical qualifications. Unlike general dentists, we’re trained to operate on the bones, nerves, and soft tissues of the face and jaw including the eye sockets. That extra expertise matters when an implant case isn’t simple.

Here’s what sets us apart:

Experience with bone grafting to rebuild areas where bone is missing
Advanced virtual surgical and treatment planning to map the safest and most accurate implant placement
Ability to work under general anaesthetic: Ideal for patients who are anxious or need a more complex procedure
Trained to manage complex implant cases, including sinus lifts, difficult bone conditions, nerve proximity, and re-treatment after implant failure

Some dental implant procedures can be done by a general dentist, but there are certain situations where seeing a surgeon is the preferred option.

You may benefit from seeing an oral and maxillofacial surgeon if you:

Have severe bone loss in your upper or lower jaw
Need zygomatic implants (implants that anchor into the cheekbone)
Have had a previous implant fail
Require a bone graft or sinus lift to support the implant
Have complex anatomy (e.g. proximity to major nerves or sinus cavities)
Prefer or require general anaesthetic instead of local
Simply want peace of mind that a surgeon is handling your case

If any of these apply, it’s worth seeing an oral & maxillofacial surgeon from the beginning.

Dr Felix Sim

Oral Maxillofacial Surgeon Melbourne

What makes an oral and maxillofacial surgeon different?

Placing dental implants is a surgical procedure that depends on precise planning and a clear understanding of your anatomy.

When you see a specialist, here’s what you can expect from the dental implant process:

Thorough 3D planning to guide implant position
Understanding of your facial anatomy especially where nerves and sinuses are close
The procedure is performed in a safe, sterile, and fully equipped hospital setting
Risk management: Fewer complications due to deeper knowledge of bone quality, tissue healing, and implant design

We work with your dentist, not instead of them

Getting a dental implant is a team effort. Here’s how it works:

We handle the surgical part, placing the implant into your jaw securely and safely
Your dentist or prosthodontist places the crown (the visible tooth that attaches to the implant)
We stay in close communication to make sure everything fits together properly for long-term success

Everyone has their role, and we work together to make your treatment as simple and successful as possible.

Choosing the right provider matters

Dental implants are a long-term investment in your health and confidence. Choosing the right provider from the start reduces the chance of complications, delays, or needing corrective treatment later on.

Here are three things to consider:

Ask your dentist if a referral to a surgeon is appropriate for your case
Look into qualifications and experience
Don’t rush into treatment that sounds “too easy” or “too cheap” for a complex case