What is a dental implant and how does it work?
A dental implant is a small titanium rod with a screw on one end and a post on the other. The dentist will place the implant into your jawbone and then leave it for 3-6 months so the bone tissue can grow around the implant and ensure the implant will be ready to handle the forces of biting and chewing. A crown or fixed denture is then created to place over the implant post to complete the restoration.
Is everyone a good candidate for dental implants?
Most people are good candidates, provided they have healthy gum tissue around the site and sufficient bone material.
You may not be a good candidate if you have diabetes, osteoporosis, have taken bisphosphonate mediations, are a heavy smoker, or have problems healing.