By Dr. George Tunder – Montour Oral Surgery
If you’ve lost a tooth—or several—you’re not alone. Over 178 million Americans are missing at least one tooth, and more than 40 million are missing all their teeth [1]. Missing teeth can impact not only your confidence but also your ability to chew, speak, and maintain good oral health. Fortunately, dental implants offer a long-lasting and natural-looking solution.
At Montour Oral Surgery, we specialize in restoring smiles with dental implants. This guide walks you through the basics so you can make an informed decision about your oral health.
What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a small titanium post that acts as an artificial tooth root. It is surgically placed into the jawbone, where it fuses with your natural bone over time—a process known as osseointegration.
Once integrated, the implant supports a dental crown, bridge, or denture, depending on how many teeth are being replaced. This restoration looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth.
Studies show implant success rates as high as 95% over 10 years [2].
Components of a Dental Implant
- Implant Post – The titanium root placed in the jawbone.
- Abutment – The connector between the implant and the crown.
- Crown or Restoration – The visible tooth replacement.
Who Is a Candidate for Dental Implants?
Most healthy adults are good candidates. However, an evaluation is necessary to determine:
- Sufficient jawbone volume
- Healthy gums (no active gum disease)
- No uncontrolled medical conditions (like diabetes)
- Non-smoker or willing to quit
CBCT imaging and digital diagnostics help evaluate bone structure and plan treatment accurately [3].
Benefits of Dental Implants
- Natural appearance and feel
- Restored chewing and speaking function
- Prevention of bone loss
- Preservation of facial structure
- No slipping or clicking like with dentures
- Can last 25+ years with proper care
According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, implants help preserve adjacent teeth better than traditional bridges, which require grinding down healthy teeth [4].
What to Expect During the Procedure
- Consultation & Imaging – Includes 3D scans and health assessment.
- Implant Placement – Performed under local anesthesia or IV sedation.
- Healing Period – 3–4 months.
- Abutment Placement & Crown – Final prosthetic is attached.
Aftercare and Maintenance
Treat your implant like a natural tooth:
- Brush and floss daily
- Use a water flosser for difficult-to-reach areas
- Attend regular cleanings and check-ups
- Avoid smoking and biting hard objects
Are Dental Implants Worth It?
While the upfront cost is higher than dentures or bridges, implants offer the best long-term value, comfort, and aesthetics. They protect your oral health and help prevent bone loss and future dental complications.
Research confirms that dental implants provide better long-term satisfaction and cost-effectiveness compared to other tooth replacement options [5].
Final Thoughts
Dental implants are a proven, predictable, and life-enhancing solution for missing teeth. At Montour Oral Surgery, Dr. George Tunder and our expert team use the latest surgical technology and clinical protocols to ensure successful outcomes and patient satisfaction.
Ready to restore your smile? Contact us today to schedule a consultation.
References:
- National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research. (2022). Tooth Loss in Adults.
- Pjetursson, B. E., et al. (2012). A systematic review of the survival and complication rates of implant-supported fixed dental prostheses. Clinical Oral Implants Research, 23(Suppl 6), 22–38.
- Scarfe, W. C., & Farman, A. G. (2008). What is Cone-Beam CT and How Does it Work? Dental Clinics of North America, 52(4), 707–730.
- American Academy of Implant Dentistry (AAID). (2023). Dental Implant Facts and Statistics.
- Esfandiari, S., et al. (2014). Cost-effectiveness of implant therapy compared to conventional denture treatment. Journal of Dentistry, 42(7), 769–776.
