Dental implants are small titanium posts which are designed to provide a foundation to help replace single or multiple missing teeth. Replacing missing teeth with dental implants allows you to return to the normal function, esthetics, and comfort that you had with your natural teeth.
Replacing teeth with dental implants typically is the most esthetic way to replace teeth because it mimics natural teeth emerging from the gum. When replacing a single tooth, placement of a dental implant prevents the preparation of adjacent teeth in order to fabricate a tooth supported bridge. If you need to replace the last tooth in your jaw, a dental implant usually is the only tooth replacement option other than a removable partial denture. Multiple teeth can be replaced with dental implants when they are used to support an implant bridge. In addition, removable appliances, such as dentures or partials, can be anchored with dental implants. This creates better stability of the removable appliance, and allows for improved function and esthetics.
Replacing a missing tooth or teeth with dental implants requires a team approach. The surgical portion of the treatment plan (implant placement into bone) is performed by your periodontist. Following healing of the implant into the jawbone, the restorative portion (attachment of a crown/cap or denture) is then performed by another dental provider who is familiar with such treatment (usually your general dentist or a prosthodontist).
Dental implants are truly changing the way people live. With them, people are rediscovering the comfort and confidence to eat, speak, laugh and enjoy life!
