What is an implant?

Dental implants are small metal posts made of biocompatible titanium that act as artificial roots and are the closest substitute to natural teeth in form and function.

An implant consists of three basic parts: the fixture which is anchored into the bone during surgery, the abutment which connects the implant to the crown and is placed after the fixture is ready for loading and finally the crown.

Fixtures are normally placed by surgeon like a periodontist. Abutment are placed by surgeons or restoring dentists. The crown are only made by restoring dentists.

An implant needs approximately 2-3 months of healing before the final abutment and crown are placed. Sometimes, temporary abutment and crowns are placed immediately after implant placement. However, these are normally done in the anterior area.

Implants are a permanent solution. The longest that an implant has lasted is around 43 years. However, medical conditions such as diabetes or smoking habits or local oral problems such as periodontal disease can shorten the lifespan of an implant.

Implants heal differently depending on the bone quality and quantity. Spongy and soft bones take longer to integrate with the implant. Perfect example of this bone in the upper posterior area of the mouth. Additionaly, implants placed into freshly extracted sockets take longer than in healed bones.