Dental Implants

A dental implant is widely considered the gold standard for replacing a missing tooth. Unlike dentures or bridges, an implant replaces the entire tooth — both the root and the visible crown — resulting in a restoration that looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth.

How the Procedure Works

Getting a dental implant typically takes place over several months and involves multiple steps. First, the titanium implant post is surgically placed into the jawbone under local anesthesia by an oral surgeon or periodontist. Over the following three to six months, the implant fuses with the surrounding bone in a process called osseointegration. Once healed, an abutment (connector piece) is attached, followed by a custom-made porcelain crown that matches your natural teeth.

What to Expect

• The surgical placement takes one to two hours per implant under local anesthesia
• Most patients experience mild soreness and swelling for a few days after surgery
• The healing and fusion period takes three to six months
• Final crown placement is a simple, painless appointment
• Total treatment time is typically six to twelve months from start to finish

Who Performs Implant Surgery

The surgical placement of implants is performed by oral surgeons or periodontists. Your general dentist may place the final crown. In some cases, a single provider performs the entire procedure. Ask upfront who will handle each stage.

Are You a Candidate?

Good candidates have adequate jawbone density to support the implant, healthy gums, and no uncontrolled medical conditions. Bone loss from long-term tooth absence may require a bone graft before implant placement. A CT scan is typically used to assess bone volume before surgery.

Implant Alternatives

If implants are not an option, alternatives include dental bridges (which anchor to adjacent teeth) and partial or full dentures. A prosthodontist can help you evaluate which option best suits your situation.