If you're missing one tooth or more, you may find that there are other things you miss. You may miss your natural smile. You may miss the ability to chew apples, crackers and other food you desire. Maybe you feel self-conscious about your teeth and mouth, or discomfort as remaining teeth shift. Conventional bridges or dentures may not be your only options when replacing lost teeth. For some people, dental implants offer a solution that looks and feels like your own natural teeth. Surgically placed below the gums and into the jaw bone, implants fuse to the bone and serve as a base for individual replacement teeth, bridges or a denture.
Implants offer stability because the bone grows onto the implant in a process called osseo-integration. Once this fusion has occurred, the implant can be used in a variety of situations to support teeth replacements. This allows for more natural and comfortable substitutes for lost teeth.
Candidates for dental implants need to have healthy gums and adequate bone to support the implant. A thorough evaluation by your dentist will help determine whether an implant is right for you.