{"id":141,"date":"2021-04-18T22:48:00","date_gmt":"2021-04-18T22:48:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.beacondentistry.com\/blog\/?p=141"},"modified":"2026-01-21T23:12:14","modified_gmt":"2026-01-21T23:12:14","slug":"the-basics-of-dental-implants-101","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.beacondentistry.com\/blog\/2021\/04\/18\/the-basics-of-dental-implants-101\/","title":{"rendered":"The Most Essential Facts to Know About Dental Implants"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Dental implants have quickly become one of the most sought-after tooth replacements in the dental field today. However, if you\u2019ve never heard of them before, you may be wondering why dentists are regularly recommending them to replace teeth. Whether you\u2019ve recently lost a tooth due to severe decay\/gum disease or you\u2019re looking for an alternative to your stubborn denture, dental implants<\/a> can offer a viable alternative, and perhaps even a new gold standard for rebuilding smiles. Take a moment to look through the basics of dental implants today!<\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n

Dental Implants are Prosthetic Tooth Roots<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

When it comes to replacing teeth with dental implants, it\u2019s not only the visible tooth that\u2019s being replaced. The biggest difference between traditional tooth replacement options and dental implants is that dental implants utilize a titanium post that mimics the roots of teeth. This component is what ensures the replacement tooth can withstand regular chewing, tearing, and biting, no matter what foods you consume.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In contrast, bridges and dentures sit on top of the gums, which means they only solve part of the problem that tooth loss creates. Dental implants offer a more complete solution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

They Require Surgery to Place<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The prosthetic root of dental implants sits underneath the gum tissue and inside of the bone, which means surgery is necessary for them to be placed. In most cases, surgery for dental implants can be completed in a single appointment, even when multiple implants are necessary to replace teeth.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Since local anesthetic is provided ahead of time, surgery is not that much different than a tooth extraction. At most, slight pressure is experienced during the procedure, not discomfort. However, it\u2019s important to take some time to rest afterwards, just like with any oral surgery.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dental Implants Physically Fuse with the Jawbone<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The posts of dental implants are made of titanium, which means they can fuse with existing jawbone without worry of the body rejecting it. This process, known as osseointegration, takes several months to complete. However, it\u2019s well worth the wait because the fusion of titanium and bone is precisely what enables dental implants to last for decades and feel natural.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Keep in mind that in most cases, the implant must fully fuse with the bone before it can be covered with a dedicated restoration. While there are exceptions, (i.e. All-on-4 treatment), there will be an open gap in your smile while you wait for the implant to heal.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Better Longevity, Functionality, and Esthetics<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Once all healing is complete and the restoration (whether that be a crown, bridge, or denture) is attached, you can expect:<\/p>\n\n\n\n