
Dental Implant
A dental implant is a small screw-like post, commonly made from titanium or zirconia, that is surgically placed into the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. Once the implant integrates with the bone it serves as a stable anchor for an abutment and a crown or other prosthetic, restoring chewing function and the appearance of the natural tooth.
Placement usually involves a surgical procedure followed by a healing period during which the bone fuses to the implant (osseointegration), and some patients may need preparatory work such as bone grafting or a sinus lift. Implants can offer long-term benefits like improved chewing, speech and bone preservation, but they carry risks including infection, implant failure or peri-implantitis and require good oral hygiene and regular dental review.