If you are missing a tooth, your oral surgeon may recommend a dental implant. They have two parts: a post-surgically implanted in your jaw, and a crown that looks just like your tooth. As an alternative to conventional crowns and bridges, implants feel more natural and secure.
Expert careOur oral surgeons have special expertise in placing dental implants. They work in close collaboration with restorative dentists, or prosthodontists, to help plan and place them to replace missing teeth. If necessary, our oral surgeons can also reconstruct bone in places needing extra support so the implant sits in a sturdy foundation. Some patients may also need to modify gum tissue surrounding implants, to make teeth placed look even more natural. Learn more about bone and tissue grafting.
Why would I choose a dental implant?
They are well made and will last a lifetime. You won't ever have to remove or clean them — they look and feel like your natural teeth. They are, quite simply, the best way to replace missing or damaged teeth.
Patients are good candidates if they are:
- Healthy
- Have adequate bone support in their jaw
Candidates for bone enhancement techniques
What is the process?
If you are a patient who is having a tooth removed, your oral surgeon will discuss the option before your tooth extraction surgery. If you have lost your tooth already, your oral surgeon will probably:
- Do a full dental examination, including X-rays.
- Explain the surgery behind dental implants. Typically, your oral surgeon will drill a space in your jaw to hold the implant; then the implant is placed in the jaw.
- After a few months, to allow time for the implant to integrate with the jaw, your restorative dentist will place the crown on top of the implant.
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Getting the care you need starts with seeing one of our oral surgeons.