Dental implants are permanent restorations with a natural appearance and function. Dental implants are used to permanently replace missing teeth, and when cared for properly, they can last a lifetime.
Dental implants replace missing teeth and also provide a fixed solution to having removable partial or complete dentures. Dental implants are made of titanium, a metal that is usually biocompatible with body.
In general, any healthy person without gum disease and with enough bone to place the implant is a good candidate. Special radiographs including CT scans are necessary to determine if there is enough bone for implant placement.
The surgery is done painlessly with local anesthetic. A site is prepared in the bone where the implant is to be placed. The site is closed with sutures. Most patients are back to work the next day and they are happy to learn that there is very little discomfort from the procedure.
Dental implants must be cared for much like natural teeth. It will be important to maintain regular recall appointments and to have the implant professionally cleaned, just like your natural teeth.