• Dental implants: implants eliminate discomfort caused by dentures or missing teeth. They provide a foundation for replacement teeth that feel just like your natural teeth.
• A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is surgically placed into your jaw bones to hold a replacement tooth, a bridge or denture in place. The benefit of implants is that they don't rely on neighboring teeth for support.  Once successfully placed, implants can now be used to support crowns and bridges, avoiding the need for a denture. The cost tends to be greater, but the implants and bridges more closely resemble real teeth.

Can anyone receive dental implants?

• You must be in good health and have the proper bone structure and healthy gums for the implant to stay in place. If you suffer from chronic problems, such as clenching or bruxism, or systemic diseases, such as diabetes, the success rate for implants decreases dramatically. Additionally, people who smoke or drink alcohol may reduce the success rate.

What can I expect during this procedure?

• The procedure is done in the dental office with local anesthesia, with or without sedation. The implant is then secured under the gum, which will remain covered for a few months until it integrates with the bone. A crown or a bridge is then attached to the implant post as the final restoration.