All About Implants

During the last 20 years, dental implants have become a desirable alternative to other methods of replacing missing teeth. Excellent success rates and a range of available options give dentists a variety of new ways to treat and replace lost teeth.

Implants are titanium-based structures that are placed in the area of the tooth normally occupied by the root. Implants are usually made of a synthetic yet biocompatible material like metal or ceramic. Implants are anchored to the jawbone and act as a foundation for an artificial tooth or permanent bridge. In some cases, implants are used to attach dentures.

Surgery is necessary to prepare the bone for an implant and place the implant in the mouth. Single-tooth implants or a series of implants to replace multiple missing teeth are fabricated and custom-fit to a patient’s mouth. A period of time is then required for the implant to take hold and for bone tissue to build up and anchor the implant. A follow-up appointment is required to attach the replacement tooth to the implant. Similarly, dentures or partial dentures can be fabricated to fit over the implant(s).