Implant Dentistry What are Implants? Implants Photo Gallery Dental Implants are an option to the replacement of one or more teeth, if Bridges or Dentures won’t work for you. Unlike Dentures, which can be removed, Implants are permanently anchored into the jaw itself. Implants function and look like natural teeth. They help maintain bone mass and help prevent additional tooth loss as well as the sunken facial appearance associated with missing teeth. An Implant restoration consists of a biocompatible titanium fixture topped with a Crown, Bridge or Denture. The Implant must be surgically placed into the jawbone where it replaces the natural tooth root. After a few months, the bone grows around the implant promoting stability and your chewing and biting activity can return to healthy standards. The primary factor required in implant therapy is a good amount of bone ridges and healthy oral tissue available to receive and support the implant. If it is determined that a patient does not have enough bone to support the implant, bone grafting procedures may be considered. Heavy smoking and some medical conditions may limit the use of implant therapy, as well. What should I expect during Implant restoration? During your first examination, the dentist will typically begin with x-rays (some may use CT Scans, as well). Impressions are taken of the mouth and the dental lab creates a customized mold. At your second appointment, the dentist makes an incision to expose the bone at the site of replacement and prepares it. After securing the Implant, the gum tissue is sutured back over the Implant. After these steps, the Implant is left alone for 3 – 6 months allowing it to incorporate with the bone. If area is noticeable, the patient may wear a temporary prosthesis or Dentures relined with soft liners for comfort during this healing period. After the healing has occurred, a post is attached to the Implant and the dentist attaches the permanent tooth replacement. Dental care of these Implants will be specified by the dentist.