Implant dentistry uses dental implants to replace missing teeth and provide support for custom restorations. Unlike traditional tooth-replacement options that rest on the gums or rely on neighboring teeth, a dental implant is placed into the jawbone to replace the missing tooth root.
Once the implant has integrated with the surrounding bone, it can support a crown, bridge, or other dental restoration. Because implant treatment can be adapted to many different patterns of tooth loss, it offers a versatile solution for restoring the appearance, stability, and everyday function of your smile.
Dental implants may be an option if you are missing one or more teeth or need to replace teeth that can no longer be predictably restored. Successful treatment depends on several factors, including your oral health, available bone, overall health, and ability to heal.
You may be a candidate for dental implants if you:
Our doctors will perform a comprehensive evaluation before determining whether implant treatment is appropriate for you.
Dental implants can be used in several ways depending on how many teeth are missing and your individual treatment needs. We’ll help you understand the available options and recommend an approach based on your oral health, anatomy, and goals.
A single dental implant can support an individual crown to replace one missing tooth without relying on neighboring teeth for support.
When several neighboring teeth are missing, implants can support a fixed bridge and replace multiple teeth without requiring an individual implant for every missing tooth.
Dental implants can provide additional support and stability for certain removable or more extensive restorations when multiple or all teeth are missing.
For patients with extensive tooth loss or teeth that cannot be restored, implants may be incorporated into a comprehensive treatment plan designed to rebuild function across an entire arch or smile.
Dental implants cannot develop cavities, but the gums and bone surrounding them still require consistent care. Daily brushing, cleaning around your implant restoration, and regular professional dental care are essential for maintaining the health of the supporting tissues.
We’ll recommend a home-care routine based on the type of implant restoration you receive. Regular examinations also allow us to monitor your implant, restoration, bite, and surrounding tissues and identify changes that may require attention.
Dental implants are designed to provide a long-term tooth-replacement solution, but their longevity depends on several factors, including oral hygiene, gum and bone health, bite forces, overall health, and regular professional care. The restoration attached to an implant may require maintenance or replacement over time.
Local anesthesia is used during implant placement to keep the treatment area comfortable. Some soreness, swelling, or tenderness can occur afterward as the area heals. The amount of discomfort and recovery time varies depending on the complexity of the procedure and whether additional treatment is performed.
The timeline varies from patient to patient. Some treatment plans require extraction or bone grafting before implant placement, and the implant generally needs time to integrate with the surrounding bone before receiving its final restoration. We’ll explain the anticipated stages and timeline based on your individual treatment plan.
A dental implant replaces the missing tooth root and supports a restoration independently, while a traditional bridge typically relies on neighboring teeth for support. Both can effectively replace missing teeth. The right choice depends on the condition of your surrounding teeth, available bone, oral health, treatment goals, and other individual factors.
