Why implants are usually the right answer.
A short, honest summary of what an implant does, what the alternatives are, and where they're not the right call.
What an implant actually is.
A titanium screw placed in the jawbone where a tooth root used to be, plus an abutment, plus a custom crown on top. The bone heals around the titanium ("osseointegration") within 3–4 months. Once integrated, it functions and feels like a natural tooth.
Why we prefer them over the alternatives.
vs. fixed bridge: implant doesn't require grinding down two healthy adjacent teeth. vs. removable denture: implant stays put, doesn't need adhesive, doesn't move when you eat. vs. doing nothing: bone shrinks over time when a tooth is missing, which changes the shape of your face.
When implants aren't the right answer.
Active periodontal disease. Uncontrolled diabetes. Heavy smoking. Insufficient bone without grafting. Pediatric patients (jaw still growing). And occasionally — a fixed bridge or denture is simply a better fit for the patient's life or budget. We'll tell you straight.
Common questions.
Will my body reject the implant?
Rare — titanium is biocompatible. The much more common failure mode is poor bone integration from smoking, diabetes, or excessive bite force.
Can I get an implant if I have gum disease?
We treat the gum disease first. Then we re-evaluate.
How long is the whole process?
Implant placement to final crown is typically 4 months. Cases needing a bone graft first add 3–4 months.
Want to know if you're a candidate?
A consult with a CBCT scan gives you a clear yes or no, and a clear price.
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