Overview

Dental implants are a long-lasting solution to missing teeth that function as a replacement tooth root. Implants are manufactured from titanium or titanium alloy, a biocompatible material that naturally fuses with existing bone and does not deteriorate over time. Each titanium screw is precisely designed to the appropriate diameter and length to create a solid foundation for a replacement tooth.

After the oral and maxillofacial surgeon completes any tooth extractions or bone grafts, the implant is surgically inserted into the jaw, either within the existing socket or a new hole that is drilled by the surgeon. During a process called osseointegration, the dental implant integrates with the bone and becomes part of the jaw. A temporary crown or prosthetic may be created and placed by your dentist during the healing process.

Once osseointegration is complete, an abutment is attached to the top of the implant and serves as a connector between the implant and the prosthetic crown. The oral surgeon will examine the site to ensure that the implant has properly fused, the gums are healthy, and there are no other issues. The new crown or permanent tooth is then custom-designed and fitted by a restorative dentist. With proper care, the titanium implant can last for the rest of a patient’s lifetime without requiring replacement.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are precisely milled titanium screws of varying diameter and length that are surgically implanted into the jaw.  Implants provide the “foundation” for the prosthetic crown of the replacement tooth.

Immediate Dental Implants

Immediate implant placement into an extraction socket is a highly predictable means of tooth replacement, which provides the same outcome with few surgical procedures and reduced overall treatment time.

Pre-Prosthetic Surgery

The preparation of your mouth before the placement of a prosthesis is referred to as pre-prosthetic surgery.