Implants are natural looking replacements for missing teeth. The implant itself is a post that attaches to your jawbone. This post provides an anchor for your general dentist to place crowns, bridges or other restorations.

Dental implants begin with an evaluation by your general dentist who will decide if you are a good candidate for this procedure.

For more detailed information, please see the section entitled "Dental Implants."

Dental implants function much better than removable teeth, (e.g. partials or dentures). Patients often comment that dental implants are so natural in appearance and function that it is like having their natural teeth back. Today's advancements make implants function within 90% of the efficiency of natural teeth in terms of both bite and feel.

The cost of implants varies from patient to patient, depending on the complexity of each case. As a general rule, however, the investment is comparable to that of fixed bridgework.

The discomfort involved with receiving a dental implant is similar to that of having a cavity filled. It is often done under local anesthesia and patients generally experience little discomfort after the procedure.

Dental implants become fixed to the jawbone. Though the life span of a dental implant will vary with each patient, many have lasted for over 30 years. With good oral hygiene and regular cleanings, dental implants should last a lifetime. In contrast, the average life span of a traditional fixed bridge is between 10-15 years.

A critical question in determining whether an implant can be placed is, "Is there enough bone to support the implant?" Fortunately, advanced bone regeneration techniques now make it possible to place many more implants than just 10 years ago.

Dental implant treatment begins with an evaluation by your general dentist who will determine if you are a good candidate for this procedure. If he feels dental implants might be possible, he will send you to a periodontist for a placement evaluation.

As soon as the final restoration has been placed, you can resume normal eating again. A strict soft diet is necessary between placing the implant and placing the final restoration since stress prior to the final cementing of the restorative tooth could cause the implant to be weakened and fail.