Dental implants are artificial tooth roots that are surgically placed into the jawbone to provide a stable and strong foundation for replacement teeth or dental bridges. They are typically made of titanium, a biocompatible material that can fuse with the bone tissue in a process called osseointegration.
Once the implants have fully integrated with the bone, they can support a variety of restorations, including single crowns, bridges, and even full arch dentures. Dental implants are often preferred over other tooth replacement options because they can look, feel, and function like natural teeth and can last for many years with proper care.
Implants are typically placed in a two-stage process. In the first stage, the implant is placed in the jawbone and allowed to heal and fuse with the bone over several months. In the second stage, an abutment is attached to the implant, and a custom-made dental crown or other restoration is attached to the abutment.