Dental implants
Explained

Dental implants are permanent replacements for missing teeth, utilizing titanium posts surgically inserted into the jawbone to serve as artificial tooth roots. These posts are topped with crowns, bridges, or dentures, offering a solution that closely mimics natural teeth in durability, appearance, and functionality. Unlike other dental prosthetics, implants integrate with the jawbone through a process called osseointegration, providing unmatched stability and helping to prevent bone loss while maintaining facial structure.

The Dental Implant Procedure

The implant process is multi-staged and typically spans several months:

1. Consultation and Planning: The dentist evaluates oral health using X-rays or 3D imaging to assess bone density and plan implant placement. A treatment plan is customized to the patient’s needs.

2. Bone Grafting (if needed): Patients with insufficient jawbone may require bone grafting to ensure a stable foundation, adding 3–6 months to the timeline.

1. Implant Placement: Under local anesthesia or sedation, a titanium post (the implant) is surgically inserted into the jawbone. The site heals over 3–6 months as the bone fuses with the implant through osseointegration.

2. Abutment Placement: Once healed, a connector (abutment) is attached to the implant to hold the restoration.

3. Restoration: A custom-made crown, bridge, or denture is fitted onto the abutment, completing the process.