What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small post surgically placed in the jawbone to support a replacement tooth. After healing, an abutment and a custom dental crown may be attached. Implants may also support certain bridges or dentures when clinically appropriate.
Dental implants are one option for replacing missing teeth, but they are not suitable for every patient. Your dentist will review your oral health, medical history and treatment goals before recommending an appropriate solution.
Who May Be a Candidate for Dental Implants?
A dental implant evaluation may consider:
- The number and location of missing teeth
- The health of the gums and remaining teeth
- The amount and condition of available jawbone
- General health and factors that may affect healing
- Tobacco use, medications and relevant medical conditions
- The ability to maintain daily oral hygiene and regular dental visits
Some patients may need treatment for gum disease, bone grafting or another preparatory procedure before implant placement. Recommendations can only be made after an individual examination and appropriate diagnostic imaging.
Steps in Dental Implant Treatment
- Consultation and evaluation: The dental team reviews your health history, examines your mouth and may recommend X-rays or other diagnostic images.
- Personalized treatment planning: Your dentist explains suitable options, expected stages, possible risks, healing considerations and alternatives.
- Implant placement: When appropriate, the implant is surgically positioned in the jawbone.
- Healing and integration: The implant generally requires time to integrate with the surrounding bone. Healing time varies by patient and procedure.
- Final restoration: After adequate healing, a custom crown, bridge or implant-supported restoration may be attached.
Caring for Dental Implants
Dental implants require consistent home care and professional monitoring. Plaque can accumulate around an implant and contribute to inflammation of the surrounding gums and bone. Brushing, cleaning between the teeth and implants, and attending recommended dental visits remain essential.
No dental treatment can be guaranteed to last indefinitely. Long-term results depend on oral hygiene, general health, tobacco use, bite forces, follow-up care and other individual factors.
Patients with gum-health concerns can also learn about South Dental’s periodontal care.
Request a Dental Implant Evaluation
Contact South Dental to discuss whether dental implants or another tooth-replacement option may be appropriate for you.
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Dental implants — frequently asked questions
Am I a candidate for dental implants?
That depends on your gums, remaining teeth, available bone and general health. An examination and diagnostic imaging are needed to decide.
How long does implant treatment take?
Implants need time to integrate with the bone, so treatment happens in stages. Healing time varies by patient and procedure.
How do I care for an implant?
Brush, clean between your teeth and implants, and keep your recommended dental visits — plaque around an implant can cause inflammation.
How long do dental implants last?
With good oral hygiene and regular check-ups, implants can last many years. The crown on top may eventually need replacement due to normal wear.
Does getting an implant hurt?
The procedure is performed with local anesthesia so you stay comfortable. Some soreness afterwards is normal, and your dentist will explain how to manage it.
How long does the implant process take?
Implants are placed in stages and the bone needs time to heal, so the full process usually takes several months. Your dentist will give you a timeline for your case.
This page provides general information and is not a diagnosis. Treatment recommendations require an individual examination, and service availability may vary by location.