Dental Implants

Dental implants take the place of a lost tooth root. These permanent metal screws secure artificial or fake teeth — such as dental crowns, dental bridges or dentures — in place. A dental implant can replace one or more missing teeth.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are small threaded posts that replace missing teeth roots. Most dental implants are titanium, but some are ceramic. Both of these materials are safe and biocompatible (friendly to the tissues inside of your mouth).

How do dental implants work?

A surgeon places a dental implant into your jaw during an oral surgery procedure. Once the implant heals, your dentist can place a crown on top. Depending on your oral health goals, your dentist can restore your implants with crowns, bridges or dentures.

Who might need dental implants?

People who have one or more missing teeth can benefit from dental implants. You might need a dental implant if you have tooth loss due to:

• Cavities (tooth decay).
• Tooth root fracture.
• Bruxism (clenching or grinding your teeth).
• Gum disease.
• Facial injury.
• Congenitally missing teeth (you were born without certain teeth).

How should I prepare for a dental implant?

Before the dental implant procedure, you should:

• Give your dentist a current list of medications and supplements you take. It’s important to tell your dentist if you’re taking a blood thinner (anticoagulant). Your dentist will decide in coordination with your primary care provider whether you need to stop taking any medications before your implant procedure.
• Make sure that you’ve seen your primary care provider recently for a checkup and blood work to ensure that there aren’t any conditions that would interfere with implant success.
• Talk to your dentist about sedation options. Most surgeons offer sedative medications that help you relax during your dental implant surgery.
• If you plan on having sedation, arrange for a trusted friend or family member to drive you home after your procedure.

Risks / Benefits

What are the benefits of dental implants?

Dental implants offer a wide range of advantages. They can:

• Improve speech and chewing ability.
• Enhance the appearance of your smile.
• Secure permanent or removable bridges and dentures.
• Provide teeth replacement without altering (shaving down) your neighboring teeth. (This is necessary for dental bridges.)

In addition, dental implants can’t get cavities. (But they’re not invulnerable to gum disease, so it’s still important to practice good oral hygiene.)

What are the risks or complications of dental implants?

Like any surgery, dental implant placement carries the potential for complications. Possible risks include:

• Infection.
• Sinus damage.
• Nerve damage.
• Improper implant placement.
• Allergic reaction to titanium (very rare).

When an experienced surgeon places implants, the risk of complications is minimal. If you’re thinking about getting dental implants, be sure to find a provider you trust.