What Is a Dental Implant and How Does It Work?

A Modern Solution for Replacing Missing Teeth

If you’re missing a tooth, or several, you’ve likely heard about dental implants. They’ve become the gold standard for tooth replacement, and for good reason. Implants don’t just restore the look of your smile, they function almost exactly like natural teeth. But what exactly is a dental implant, and how does it work?

Let’s break it down.

A Bit of History

Believe it or not, early attempts at dental implants date back thousands of years. Archeologists have discovered ancient skulls with shell fragments embedded in jawbones, likely early versions of tooth replacements. It’s wild to think how far we’ve come.

The real game-changer happened in the 1960s when researchers discovered something remarkable about titanium: bone doesn’t reject it. Instead, it grows tightly around the material, forming a secure, long-lasting connection. This process, known as osseointegration, makes modern implants not only possible but incredibly reliable.

What Exactly Is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a small titanium post that’s surgically placed into your jawbone to serve as a replacement for a missing tooth root. Over the course of several months, your body naturally fuses bone tissue to the implant, creating a solid foundation.

Once healing is complete, a custom crown, bridge, or denture is attached to the implant, restoring both function and appearance.

Here’s how the process typically works:

1. Surgical Placement
   The titanium post is carefully inserted into your jawbone. This is done under local anesthesia and usually involves minimal discomfort.
2. Healing and Osseointegration
   Over the next two to six months, bone gradually grows around the implant. This is the critical phase where the stability of the implant is built.
3. Restoration Phase
   Once fully healed, the implant is topped with a connector piece (called an abutment) and a custom crown or other restoration, designed to match your natural teeth.

Why Titanium?

Titanium is uniquely biocompatible, meaning your body accepts it without triggering a rejection or allergic response. It’s also incredibly strong, lightweight, and resistant to corrosion. These properties make it ideal for long-term success inside the body.

And because of osseointegration, the implant essentially becomes part of your jaw --so chewing, smiling, and speaking feel completely natural.

Who Might Be a Good Candidate?

Most adults with healthy gums and adequate bone can be considered for dental implants. Even if bone loss has already occurred, procedures like bone grafting can often make implants possible. Other factors like smoking, diabetes, or untreated gum disease may affect healing, so a thorough evaluation is essential.

The Long-Term Benefits

Unlike bridges or dentures, implants don’t rely on surrounding teeth for support, which helps preserve your overall dental structure. They also prevent jawbone deterioration, a common issue after tooth loss.

And when cared for properly, dental implants can last decades, or even a lifetime.

Your Next Step

If you’re missing teeth and want something that looks, feels, and functions like the real thing, dental implants are one of the most reliable and natural options available.

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Wondering if Dental Implants Are Right for You?

We’d love to talk through your options and help you understand the implant process step by step. Reach out to Miami Smile Dental to schedule a consultation and start planning your smile restoration.