What is a dental implant?
A dental implant is a titanium post placed into the jawbone to replace a missing tooth's root, topped with a custom crown. It's currently the closest replacement to a natural tooth in both function and appearance.
Am I a good candidate for implants?
Most healthy adults with adequate jawbone density are candidates. Factors like uncontrolled diabetes, heavy smoking, or significant bone loss may need to be addressed first — a consultation and scan will confirm suitability.
Is the implant procedure painful?
Placement is done under local anesthesia, and most patients report less discomfort than expected — similar to a tooth extraction. Mild swelling or soreness for a few days afterward is normal.
How long does the whole implant process take?
From placement to final crown, the process typically takes 3–6 months, because the implant needs time to fuse with the jawbone (osseointegration) before it can safely support a crown. Some cases qualify for faster protocols, assessed individually.
How long do dental implants last?
With good oral hygiene and regular check-ups, implants commonly last 15–25 years or longer — many patients keep them for life.
What's the difference between an implant and a bridge or denture?
An implant replaces a tooth independently without affecting neighboring teeth, while a bridge relies on adjacent teeth for support, and dentures sit removably on the gums. Implants generally offer the most stability and the closest feel to a natural tooth, though cost and suitability vary per patient.
What's recovery like after implant surgery?
Most patients return to normal activity within a day or two, with some swelling for the first few days. Full bone integration takes months, but this doesn't restrict most daily activities.