A dental implant is the most natural-appearing and functional alternative for replacing a missing tooth. It is an artificial tooth root made from medical-grade titanium that is surgically placed beneath the gum line, where it bonds naturally with the surrounding jawbone through a process called osseointegration.
This titanium screw acts as an abutment (support) for a crown or bridge to be placed on top of it, functioning and appearing just like a natural tooth.
Prevent Further Tooth and Bone Loss
It is important to replace a missing tooth as soon as possible to prevent deterioration of the bone that once supported it. When a tooth is lost, the underlying jawbone begins to resorb (shrink) — which can lead to:
- Shifting and drifting of adjacent and opposing teeth.
- Structural changes to your jaw and facial profile.
- Loss of chewing function and altered speech.
- Increased risk of further tooth loss.
A dental implant is the only tooth replacement option that stimulates the jawbone, preventing bone loss and preserving your facial structure.
Advantages of Implants
One of the key advantages of dental implants compared to bridges is that they are completely freestanding — they hold their position with the support of their own anchor in the jawbone, without involving the adjacent teeth at all. This means neighbouring healthy teeth do not need to be prepared or ground down.
