What Is a Dental Implant?
A replacement tooth with real roots.
A dental implant is a small titanium post placed into your jawbone — functioning like an artificial tooth root. Once it fuses with the bone, a custom porcelain crown is attached on top. The result looks and functions exactly like the teeth around it.
Unlike a bridge, implants don’t require grinding down healthy teeth. Unlike dentures, they don’t shift or need adhesive. They also stimulate the jawbone the way natural roots do, preventing the bone loss that typically follows tooth loss.
Good to know: Most adults with missing teeth are candidates. Adequate bone density and healthy gums are the main factors — we’ll assess both at your consultation.
The Process
What to expect, start to finish.
Implant treatment typically unfolds over a few months. Here’s how it goes.
1
Consultation & Planning
We examine your teeth, gums, and bone density and put together a treatment plan. If bone grafting is needed first, we explain what that looks like before you commit to anything.
2
Implant Placement
The titanium post is placed under local anesthesia. Most patients are surprised by how manageable it is. A healing period of a few months follows while the implant fuses with the bone.
3
Crown Placement
Once healed, a custom porcelain crown is matched to your surrounding teeth and secured in place. You care for it just like a natural tooth — brush, floss, done.
Common Questions
What patients ask us most.
Less than most patients expect. Local anesthesia keeps you comfortable throughout, and post-procedure soreness is typically managed with over-the-counter pain relievers. We also offer nitrous oxide for patients who want extra help relaxing.
The implant post is designed to be permanent. With good oral hygiene and regular cleanings, most implants last decades — often a lifetime. The crown may need replacement after 15–20 years.
Coverage varies. Some PPO plans cover a portion of the implant or crown; others don’t. We verify your benefits before treatment so you know what to expect — no surprise bills.
Bone loss is common after tooth loss and doesn’t necessarily rule out an implant. Bone grafting can rebuild the foundation. We’ll let you know if this applies to your situation during the consultation.
You might also be interested in
Restorative
Dental Crowns
Restore a damaged tooth to full strength and appearance.
Preventive
Dental Cleanings
Keep your natural teeth — and your implant — healthy long-term.
Urgent Care
Emergency Dentistry
Same-day care when you need it most.