Dental Implants

An implant replaces a missing tooth root with a titanium post. Once it bonds with the bone, a crown, bridge, or denture can be attached for a stable, long-term replacement.

Implants can replace one tooth, several teeth, or support a full-arch restoration. They often come up after an extraction, when a denture feels unstable, or when a patient wants a fixed option instead of a removable partial.

Bone volume, gum health, medical history, and bite all affect whether an implant is appropriate. Imaging, including 3D CBCT scans when indicated, helps plan the position of each post.

1. 1

   Assessment

   The dentist examines the site, reviews your medical history, and uses imaging to confirm there is enough bone and space for an implant.

2. 2

   Placement

   The implant post is placed in the jaw under local anesthetic. Comfort options, including nitrous oxide when appropriate, are discussed beforehand.

3. 3

   Healing

   The implant bonds with the bone over a healing period. In some visible areas, a temporary tooth may be used while that happens.

4. 4

   Restoration

   Once the implant is stable, a custom crown, bridge, or denture is attached. Those options are covered under implant-supported restorations.

The surgical step and the final tooth are related but separate services. Placement is the oral surgery part. The crown, bridge, or denture that sits on the implant is planned as an implant-supported restoration.

If a tooth still needs to be removed first, see extractions. The dentist will outline the timing so replacement can be planned rather than left as an open space. Some cases may be referred when that is the safer option.