Dental implants are predictable surgically fixed substitutes for roots of missing teeth. These fixtures are embedded in the jawbone and act as anchors to support restorations that resemble a tooth (crown) or a group of teeth (bridge or dentures).
The implant, which looks like a screw, is surgically placed into your jaw. Once placed, the Implant requires at least 6 months of healing time. During healing, surrounding bone will attach to the implant surface providing the needed strength to support the future restoration. During this time, a temporary tooth replacement option can be worn over the implant site.
Finally, a replacement tooth called a crown or a bridge will be created for you by your General Dentist or Prosthodontist.
A dental implant provides several advantages over other tooth replacement options. In addition to looking and functioning like a natural tooth, a dental implant replaces a tooth without sacrificing the health of neighbouring teeth.
Dental implants will also permit preservation of the surrounding alveolar bone and limit further resorption that normally occurs over time in an edentulous site.