An artificial tooth root surgically inserted directly into the jawbone where a tooth is absent is a dental implant. For a bridge, replacement tooth, or set of replacement teeth, a dental implant serves as the anchor. Because they look and feel like natural teeth and are in no sense attached to adjacent teeth, implants offer a good substitute for crowns and bridges.
Dental implants are generally made of titanium, a surgical metal that bonds well to bone. The cylindrical implant is designed to integrate into the structure of your jawbone, forming an anchor for your replacement tooth. Implanting the artificial root requires surgery, usually under a local anesthetic. During surgery, an incision is made in the gum to expose the jawbone, the bone is prepared, and the implant is inserted into the prepared site. Usually this area is left undisturbed for 4-6 months to ensure proper healing. Once the site has healed, a second procedure is required to clear the gum away from the implant and fasten a post, which will attach to the replacement tooth.
