Implants
If you are self-conscious due to missing teeth, wear dentures that are uncomfortable or don’t want to have good tooth structure removed to make a bridge, talk to your dentist to see if dental implants are an option for you.
Dental implants are a popular and effective way to replace missing teeth and are designed to blend in with your natural teeth. They are an excellent long-term option for restoring your smile. In fact, the development and use of implants is one of the biggest advances in dentistry in the past 40 years. Dental implants are made up of titanium and other materials that are compatible with the human body. They are posts that are surgically placed in the upper or lower jaw, where they function as a sturdy anchor for replacement teeth.
Most patients find that a dental implant is secure, stable and a good replacement for their own tooth.
Phases of a Dental Implant
FIRST. The dental implant is surgically placed into the jawbone. Your dentist may recommend a special diet of cool liquid or soft foods the day of surgery. You may also be required to return in 5-7 days to remove sutures if needed. 
SECOND. The bone around the implant heals in a process called osseointegration. This is where the bone actually grows around the implant to securely hold it in place. The typical healing period is four months.
THIRD. The final step is the placement of the implant crown. For a single tooth implant a crown will be customized based on size, shape, color and fit and will be designed to blend in with your natural teeth. If you are replacing more than a single tooth, custom-made bridges or dentures will be designed to fit your mouth and your implants. This process typically takes two weeks and you will go home with a temporary crown(s) to help you eat or speak normally until the permanent replacement is ready.
If you are interested in dental implants, it is a good idea to discuss it carefully with your dentist first to ensure you are a good candidate for this treatment.
Some chronic illnesses, such as diabetes or leukemia, may interfere with healing after surgery. Using tobacco products can also slow the healing process.
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