An implant is a titanium post placed in the jaw bone to replace a missing tooth and support a crown on top. It looks a bit like a small bolt and acts like an artificial tooth root. The process starts with a consultation and a 3D X ray (CBCT) to check you have enough bone and space for a future tooth. If you’re a good candidate, we book you for surgery under local anesthetic to get the area numb. A precise channel is prepared in the bone, often using a custom guide to control depth and angulation, and the implant and a healing cap are placed. Over the next 3–4 months, the bone fuses to the titanium (integration) while we avoid putting too much pressure on it. Once healed, a custom crown is attached. Implants can also help stabilize dentures and do not interfere with MRI scans or airport security.
For a video that walks through the process in a bit more detail, follow us on Instagram.
This article is general information, not a diagnosis. Every mouth is different, so the best answer for you comes from an exam and a conversation with your dental team.
