What are dental implants?

Dental implants are a type of replacement for missing teeth. Today, dental implants most commonly take the form of artificial tooth roots. So they come in a variety of lengths and diameters, but the most common shape is somewhat cylindrical. They can be slightly tapered or parallel-shaped and often have grooves or vents in the body design that are aimed at increasing surface area or retention of the implant as the bone grows up against it following placement. The most common material used for these root form implants is titanium, and this is generally considered the gold standard in dental implantology. More recently, however, a few companies have experimented with the use of zirconium oxide considered a ceramic. Still not widely available in the United States, the benefits of zirconium are considered to be its color (similar to tooth) and greater resistance to plaque which leads to better gum health. Some patients also dislike the idea of having metal in their mouth, or they may have sensitivities to metals, so for these individuals ceramics may be their preferred choice. The first titanium dental implant was placed in 1965, though, so this variety has the longest or most established record of success and biocompatibility.

Will I have an implant for each missing tooth?

That depends upon how many teeth are missing, the location of the missing teeth, the condition of the underlying bone, and the patient's ability or willingness to pay for each implant. Let's take an example of three consecutive teeth that are missing: the dentist can place three individual implants or place two that are located at opposite ends of the space. In the first example, three individual crowns can be made. The advantages to the patient are principally easier home care. It is simpler to floss the teeth as though they were your natural teeth. There may also be some cosmetic advantages. The principal disadvantage may be cost. You will have to pay more for the extra implant. In the second scenario (two spaced implants), the dentist can fabricate a bridge that spans the space and is supported by the two supporting implants. Sometimes, it is simply not possible to place an implant in an area that is missing a tooth. Usually, this would be because of insufficient bone, poor bone quality, or proximity to anatomical structures that might prevent placement of the implant.