Complex and Revision Implant Cases for Travelling Patients

We assess implant problems for patients who travel to Melbourne, including loose or broken implant bridges, inflamed gums around implants, implants in awkward positions, bone loss, and work done elsewhere, including overseas. At Collins Street Specialist Centre a prosthodontist, an oral and maxillofacial surgeon and a periodontist can review the case together, and treatment depends on the findings.

Which problems count as a complex or revision implant case?

A revision case is one where earlier implant treatment needs to be checked, repaired, redone or removed. Situations we see include:

• inflammation or infection of the gum and bone around an implant (peri-implant disease)
• a crown or full-arch bridge that has loosened, chipped or fractured
• implants placed at an angle or depth that makes them hard to restore or clean
• bone that has receded around implants, or too little bone to place new ones
• dentures or bridges that no longer fit or are uncomfortable
• full-arch work, at home or abroad, that a patient wants independently reviewed

How do our specialists assess work done elsewhere?

We start with your history: when and where the treatment was done, what was placed and any problems since. A detailed examination follows, with imaging where needed, which can include a cone beam CT scan taken in our rooms. Identifying the implant system is part of this assessment. Because our prosthodontists, surgeons and periodontists practise together, a complex case can be discussed across disciplines before a plan is put to you.

What treatment options might be discussed?

Options depend on what the examination shows, and may include:

• non-surgical or surgical treatment of peri-implant disease, followed by a maintenance programme
• a new crown, bridge or overdenture on the existing implants
• bone grafting or a sinus lift to rebuild support before new implants
• removal of failing implants and staged replacement once the site has healed
• careful monitoring, where intervention is not needed yet

Your specialist explains the reasons for each option, the alternatives, the likely number of stages and the fees before anything starts.

Can new parts be matched to an implant placed overseas?

Sometimes. Once the implant system is identified, your specialist can tell you whether compatible components are available or whether another approach is needed. Your specialist can answer that once the implant has been examined and imaged, so please bring any paperwork, implant cards or x-rays you were given with the original treatment.

Which of our specialists manage revision cases?

The specialists usually involved are our prosthodontists, Prof Vasileios Chronopoulos and Dr Jamie Foong, who plan the restoration; our oral and maxillofacial surgeons, A/Prof. Patrishia Bordbar and Dr Ricky Kumar, for implant removal, grafting and placement; and our periodontists, Dr Simon Hinckfuss and Dr James van den Berg, for gum and peri-implant treatment. Dr Hinckfuss holds specialist registration in both periodontics and prosthodontics.

How does living away from Melbourne affect a revision plan?

Assessment and treatment take place in Melbourne, and we plan the timing of your visits with you once the plan is clear. Revision work can take longer than a first-time implant case, especially when an implant has to be removed, the site needs grafting or the bone needs time to heal. Bone grafting can add time and cost. After any surgery, your surgeon lets you know when you can head home.

What risks should you know about?

Revision treatment carries the usual risks of oral surgery, including pain, swelling, bleeding and infection, as well as risks specific to implants, such as a new implant not integrating with the bone, numbness from nerve involvement in the lower jaw, and sinus involvement in the upper jaw. Your specialist discusses the risks that apply to you before you consent. Results, recovery times and risks vary for each individual.

Frequently asked questions

Do you assess implants that were placed overseas?

Yes. We assess implants and bridges placed in other countries in the same way as local work, with a detailed examination and imaging where needed. Whether repair, replacement or removal is advised depends on what the assessment finds.

What should I bring to a revision assessment?

Bring copies of any x-rays or scans, implant cards, invoices or treatment summaries from the original provider, plus your medication list. Information about the implant brand helps your specialist plan, although it can often be identified from imaging.

Can an inflamed implant be saved?

Sometimes. Early peri-implant disease can often be managed with cleaning and periodontal treatment, while advanced bone loss may mean the implant has to be removed. Your periodontist or surgeon explains which applies after examining you.

Can my dentist at home stay involved?

Your dentist is welcome to send a letter and records with you and to contact us by phone or email. Ask at your consultation how maintenance visits will be arranged once you are back home.

Related pages

• Specialist full-arch care for interstate and international patients
• Referring an interstate patient
• Surgery and sedation for travelling patients
• Periodontics
• Prosthodontics
• Oral and maxillofacial surgery

Contact Collins Street Specialist Centre

To book a revision assessment, call (03) 9650 2726, or +61 3 9650 2726 if you are calling from overseas, or email theteam@collinsstreetspecialistcentre.com.au. We are at Level 8, Manchester Unity Building, 220 Collins Street, Melbourne VIC 3000, and you can also reach us through our contact page.

Results, recovery times and risks vary for each individual. Revision treatment is planned case by case, and this general information does not replace an examination. Seek advice from an appropriately qualified, AHPRA-registered practitioner before going ahead with any treatment.