An implant replaces a missing tooth. The implant is generally made up of three parts: a titanium metal screw inserted into the jawbone, a portion that rises above the gum line, and a crown to replace the missing tooth. Preparation, implantation and completion generally take several visits.
Advice
It’s a financial investment, so understand the steps for the implant, the time as well as the costs, and be committed to doing it.
Get informed about upsides and downsides (possible infection).
Be prepared to hear lots of noise during the procedure.
You may have a gum soreness after the procedure; ask your dentist how to alleviate it.
Try not to stress: The procedure is not as bad as it may sound.
Stories
Tooth Implant
The first implant was in my upper jaw, and the doctor needed to do a sinus lift. The bone in that area is porous, and in order to put a screw into the bone to attach the tooth to he cut the gums. Read More
Claudia, female, 64, Massachusetts
Tooth Implant
My dental bridge fell out and my dentist recommended dental implants. The dentist examined my gums and made an impression of the gums before the procedure. Read More
Joe, male, 70, New Jersey
Tooth Implant
I had a tooth extracted – it had gone bad due to my negligence -- and the space really bothered me. So I decided to get an implant. Read More
Sofia, female, 28, New Jersey
Tooth Implant
I had a cracked molar that needed to be replaced. The dentist recommended dental implants. Read More
James, male, 63, Massachusetts
View more stories »
Trusted Resources
No Trusted Resources