What is a dental implant?

Dental implants take the place of a lost tooth root. These permanent metal screws secure artificial or fake teeth — such as dental crowns, dental bridges or dentures — in place. A dental implant can replace one or more missing teeth.

Most people who have one or more missing teeth are candidates for dental implants.

Dental implants can improve your appearance, speech and chewing ability. Your dentist may recommend implants to secure permanent or removable dental bridges and dentures. Because implants are permanent, you don’t have to use adhesives like those that hold dentures in place. And, unlike dental bridges that require a provider to remove parts of nearby teeth, all of your healthy teeth stay intact. Dental implants do not get cavities.