The healthiest thing to do when you lose a tooth is have it replaced. Otherwise, you risk problems with biting, chewing and speaking, headaches, muscle pain and an unattractive appearance. Fortunately, there are many comfortable, secure, natural-looking types of dental implants for tooth replacement.

Dental implants serve as the base for many tooth-replacement options, including bridges, dentures and individual artificial teeth. Implants are surgically implanted in the jaw to provide a comfortable, secure fit and a natural look. With dental implants, a person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat and smile with confidence. Implants can replace one tooth, several missing teeth, and in some cases, all of your teeth. Implants also help preserve facial structure, preventing the bone deterioration that occurs when teeth are missing.

Dental implants are cylinders made of titanium that are surgically implanted into the jaw. Small posts are then attached to the implant. The jaw bone grows around the base of the implant, while the top protrudes through the gums. In the first one or two appointments, this post, or anchor, will be implanted into the jaw. The replacement tooth, bridge or denture is fitted and installed when the bone and gums have healed. Surgery may be performed in an office or hospital with local or general anesthesia.

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