What Are Dental Implants and How They Work

Woman Smiling — Smile Stop Dentures & Implants on What Are Dental Implants and How They Work

If you’ve lost one or more teeth, you’re not alone. Many people deal with tooth loss due to injury, decay, or gum disease. The good news is there’s a strong and lasting way to restore your smile: dental implants.

Dental implants are a popular tooth replacement option because they look, feel, and function like natural teeth. In this blog, we’ll explain what dental implants are, how the procedure works, and why so many patients choose them as a long-term solution.

What Are Dental Implants?

A dental implant is a small titanium post that replaces the root of a missing tooth. It’s placed into your jawbone, where it fuses with the bone over time. Once healed, the implant acts as a stable base for a replacement tooth, such as a crown, bridge, or denture.

Implants are designed to look and function just like natural teeth. They’re comfortable, durable, and help prevent bone loss in your jaw—a common problem when teeth are missing.

The Parts of a Dental Implant

A complete dental implant has three main parts:

The Implant Post

This is the screw-like piece made of titanium or other biocompatible material. It’s surgically placed into the jawbone and acts like the root of a tooth.

The Abutment

Once the implant has healed and fused with the bone, a small connector called an abutment is attached to the top. This piece connects the implant to the artificial tooth.

The Crown (or Replacement Tooth)

The final step is placing the crown, bridge, or denture on top. This piece is custom-made to match your natural teeth in shape and color, giving you a natural-looking smile.

How Do Dental Implants Work?

Dental implants work by bonding directly with your jawbone, creating a strong foundation for replacement teeth. Here’s how the process typically works:

1. Consultation and Evaluation

Your journey begins with a consultation. Your dentist will examine your mouth, take X-rays or 3D images, and determine if you’re a good candidate. They’ll look at the health of your gums and the amount of bone in your jaw.

If your jawbone is too thin or soft to hold the implant, a bone graft may be needed first. This helps create a solid base for the implant.

2. Placing the Implant

During a minor surgical procedure, the implant post is placed into your jawbone. You’ll be numbed with local anesthesia, and sedation is available if needed to help you stay relaxed.

After placement, healing begins. The bone grows around the implant in a process called osseointegration. This usually takes 3 to 6 months and ensures the implant is securely anchored.

3. Attaching the Abutment

Once the implant is fused with the bone, your dentist will attach the abutment. This part sticks out slightly above the gumline and serves as the base for the crown.

Sometimes the abutment can be placed at the same time as the implant post. Your dentist will decide which option is best for you.

4. Placing the Crown or Denture

The final step is attaching the artificial tooth. A crown is used if you’re replacing a single tooth. For several missing teeth, you might get an implant-supported bridge or denture.

These restorations are made to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth, so your smile looks and feels real.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Dental Implants?

Most healthy adults can get dental implants, but a few conditions need to be met:

You have one or more missing teeth
Your gums are healthy
You have enough bone to support the implant
You don’t smoke or are willing to quit
You’re in good overall health and can heal properly

Even if you’ve been missing teeth for years, you may still be a candidate. Bone grafts or other treatments can often help prepare your mouth for implants.

Benefits of Dental Implants

Dental implants offer several benefits compared to other tooth replacement options like bridges or traditional dentures:

Look and Feel Natural

They’re designed to blend in with your smile and feel just like your own teeth.

Long-Lasting Solution

With proper care, implants can last decades—or even a lifetime.

No Slipping or Clicking

Unlike dentures, implants stay in place. You can eat, speak, and smile with confidence.

Protects Bone Health

Implants help prevent jawbone shrinkage that occurs after tooth loss.

No Impact on Nearby Teeth

Bridges may require filing down healthy teeth. Implants only affect the space where the tooth is missing.

Caring for Dental Implants

Once your dental implant is in place, caring for it is similar to caring for natural teeth:

Brush and floss daily
Use a soft toothbrush and non-abrasive toothpaste
Visit your dentist regularly for cleanings and checkups
Avoid chewing on hard items like ice or pens

With good oral hygiene, dental implants can remain healthy and strong for many years.

Are Dental Implants Worth It?

Many patients find that dental implants are worth the investment. While the upfront cost may be higher than other options, the long-term benefits—like durability, stability, and improved quality of life—often make implants the best value over time.

At Smile Stop Dentures & Implants, we work closely with patients to create a treatment plan that fits their goals and budget. Our goal is to restore your smile with care, comfort, and lasting results.

Final Thoughts

If you’re missing teeth and looking for a permanent, natural-feeling solution, dental implants could be right for you. They’re strong, reliable, and designed to help you eat, speak, and smile with confidence.

To learn more or find out if you’re a candidate, contact Smile Stop Dentures & Implants today. Our team is here to answer your questions and guide you every step of the way.