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Dental Implant Surgery

How Do Dental Implants Work?

Missing teeth are more than just a cosmetic issue; they affect how a person breathes, eats and drinks. Dental implant surgery, performed by an oral and maxillofacial surgeon (OMS), is the most permanent solution available for missing teeth as the implants integrate directly with a patient’s jawbone.

What Are Dental Implants?

Depending on a patient’s needs, a single implant generally replaces one missing tooth. Two or more implants can serve as a stable support for the replacement of multiple teeth. 

A single dental implant restoration is composed of three parts:

  • A titanium implant that fuses to the jawbone through a process called osseointegration. 
  • An abutment, which is the portion of the implant that rises above the gum line.
  • A crown fitted on top of the abutment to give the appearance of a natural tooth.
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After the implant is placed by an OMS, it takes time for it to fuse with the jaw. Once the implant is stabilized, a restorative dentist takes an impression of the upper and lower jaws to make the crown.

Some implants may be eligible for immediate provisionalization or loading:

  • Immediate Provisionalization – When the missing tooth is in a very visible area, a temporary crown may be placed at the time of surgery. This crown is for appearance purposes only and should not be used for chewing or biting.
  • Immediate Loading – Patients with adequate bone to support the implant may be eligible for immediate loading, which is the placement of temporary or permanent crowns at the time of surgery or very soon afterward. This allows for a patient to return to a more normal diet sooner.

Full osseointegration can take  up to a few months but once complete, the dental implant will be as sturdy as the original tooth. Dental implants do not slip or make noises the way dentures can, nor do they require replacement the way a dental bridge might.

Some patients may be concerned about the cost of dental implants, but it is important to recognize the value of a potentially lifelong replacement for lost teeth.

Consult an OMS to Learn More About Dental Implants

The longevity and esthetics of dental implants are why so many people choose implants as their permanent solution to missing teeth. Consult an OMS or obtain an OMS referral to see if you are a candidate for dental implants. 

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Last updated July 2021

The information provided here is not intended as a substitute for professional medical or dental advice, diagnosis, or treatment. It is provided to help you communicate effectively when you seek the advice of your oral and maxillofacial surgeon. Photos and videos are for illustration purposes only and are not indicative to what a patient may experience.