Dental Implants

For patients with healthy gums and adequate bone support, dental implants can restore a smile so that it looks and feels very natural. This method of replacing missing teeth is not inexpensive, and may take months to complete. Even so, the look and feel is so natural, it is considered a worthwhile investment.

The procedure: A small metal, usually titanium, cylinder is surgically placed under the gum, into the jawbone, at the site of the missing tooth. Over the next three to six months, it will osseointegrate, or bond, with the bone. During this time, a temporary bridge or denture may be used to fill the missing tooth's place. After the implant is anchored properly, a replacement tooth is created and attached to the implant. A group of replacement teeth, such as a bridge or denture, may also be mounted on one or more implants.