Widely considered to be the most durable and functional tooth replacement option available, dental implants are becoming the go-to procedure to fill the space left by a missing tooth. That’s because the long-term consequences of tooth loss can be serious. Large voids between teeth eventually become difficult to clean, which is why tooth decay and periodontal, or gum, disease often follows tooth loss. While some turn to temporary solutions—such as dental bridges or removable dentures—patients who want a permanent solution look to dental implants.
Receiving a dental implant is a surgical procedure—an artificial tooth root is implanted into the jawbone, which provides a permanent base for fixed crown. After the artificial root is placed in the jawbone, the two bond to one another through a process known as osseointegration. This usually takes between two to six months, during which time you’ll be fitted with a temporary crown so you can maintain a normal daily activities. Once the implant is secure in the jawbone, a permanent crown will be cemented in place.