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Dental Implants

The gold standard for replacing missing teeth.

What is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a titanium post that is surgically positioned into the jawbone beneath the gum line. It mimics the root of a natural tooth.

How Do They Work? (Osseointegration)

The success of dental implants relies on a biological process called osseointegration. Over a period of a few months, your jawbone grows and fuses with the titanium implant surface, creating a solid anchor for a replacement crown.

Benefits of Implants

  • Preservation: Unlike bridges, implants do not require grinding down adjacent healthy teeth.
  • Bone Health: Implants stimulate the jawbone, preventing the bone loss that typically occurs after tooth extraction.
  • Durability: With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime.
  • Esthetics & Function: They look, feel, and function like natural teeth.

The Process

  1. Consultation & Planning: We use 3D imaging to plan the precise placement.
  2. Placement Surgery: The implant is placed into the jawbone. This is often done under sedation.
  3. Healing: Osseointegration takes place over 3-6 months.
  4. Restoration: Your general dentist attaches the final custom crown to the implant.

Am I a Candidate?

Most healthy adults are candidates for dental implants. You need to have healthy gums and adequate bone to support the implant. If bone is lacking, Dr. Denhart can often perform bone grafting procedures to build up the necessary foundation.

Source: American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID) & AAOMS.