Dental Implants

Dental implants are small titanium devices that are placed into the jawbone where teeth have been extracted. They function as artificial roots to replace single teeth, or to support bridgework where multiple teeth have been lost. The most common use of this procedure, introduced in the U.S. about 20 years ago as the “standard of care,” is to replace bridges attached to other healthy teeth. This offers new hope to people who have lost all of their teeth, and can allow them to eat a normal diet again. Implants allow patients to have a tooth replaced without compromising the integrity of the teeth near the space with a bridge. As few as two implants can be used to stabilize a full denture in an affordable way.

Implants are placed in our office with minimal discomfort. During the healing process, you may be able to wear a temporary partial denture for cosmetic purposes and to assist in chewing. After several months, during which the implant bonds with the surrounding bone, they are re-exposed and an additional part called an abutment is added. This allows the restoring dentist to fabricate a crown or bridge to complete the treatment.

There are instances when there is inadequate bone in the area where the surgeon and restoring dentist would like an implant placed. Several procedures are at our disposal to improve the proposed placement site. Our doctors will discuss these procedures with you during a consultation visit, which always precedes implant surgery.

Learn more about tooth replacement options

Dental implant Frequently Asked Questions