Oral Surgery

A dental implant is a small screw-like device that is made of a biocompatible material such as zirconium or titanium. It is placed into the jaw and used as a support for a dental crown. It takes the place of the root of your tooth. Dental implants are an excellent option to replace missing teeth.

Oftentimes an implant is better than a bridge for a few reasons. A bridge requires preparing and removing tooth structure from surrounding teeth, and a dental implant does not compromise other teeth. If taken care of properly, a dental implant can last longer. It is easier to maintain oral hygiene with a dental implant.

Even though your missing tooth or teeth may not be affecting you at this moment, it will eventually cause issues with the surrounding and opposing teeth. Teeth surrounding the missing tooth will drift into the empty space, often causing bone loss around the healthy teeth. You may eventually end up losing some of the surrounding teeth.

Sometimes there is not enough bone structure to support the placement of a dental implant. It would be like trying to put an umbrella into a few inches of sand at the beach on a windy day. You need a good amount of sand (bone) to place the umbrella (dental implant) into in order for it to be supported and strong.