Dental implants are frequently the best treatment option for replacing missing teeth. Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons, in close collaboration with restorative dentists, help plan and then place implants used to replace missing teeth.
For this procedure, the first step is for the surgeon to place the implant within the jawbone where the tooth is missing. The implant itself acts as a tooth root substitute. In some cases, the surgeon may need to graft bone to the area to strengthen it for placement of the implant. After the implant has healed, the surgeon may attach a small post that will act as an anchor. The restorative dentist will then place a crown on this anchor and the new tooth is in place.
Most patients experience minimal if no disruption in their normal daily schedule with either surgery. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything and can smile with confidence.
