Michael Iott Dental Blog

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are small titanium posts inserted into the upper and lower jaws to restore missing teeth. Dental implants are quickly gaining popularity as a great alternative to some forms of dentures.

According to the American Academy of Implant Prosthodontics, implants can:
· reduce movement of dentures, bridges, and/or crowns that have some inherent movement or are beginning to fit improperly due to changes in the bone
· assist with proper chewing
· support and stabilize for removable dentures or fixed bridge work
· feel more like natural teeth- something dentures can never do
· improve speech and appearance, leading to greater self confidence

Are You a Candidate for Dental Implants?

Here are some of the recommended requirements:
· you must be healthy (ability to heal is affected by certain diseases, and this may affect the successful outcome of your implant)
· a thorough and proper diagnosis must be completed before the implant is placed
· implant(s) must be properly treated by both patient and dentist to avoid complications
· heavy smoking and drinking affects the successful outcome of implants, so consider stopping beforehand

Are there different types of dental implants?

There are several types of dental implants, including:

artificial bone substitute
· a synthetic bone substitute that fits on top of the bone and helps rebuild shrinking ridges.
· Provide sturdy support for dentures.
· Made of the same type of mineral found in natural bone, so it bonds to existing jaw bone.

endosteal implants
· inserted into the jaw bone and acts as a substitute for the tooth's root

subperiosteal implants
· a specially-designed implant that fits directly on the existing bone
· an option for those who can not wear conventional dentures


The insertion of your dental implants can be done by a dentist specially training in implantology, or you may choose to receive your dental implants in a hospital setting with an oral surgeon.

Are there any health risks?

According to the American Academy of Implant Prosthodontists:

“Implants are made of biologically compatible materials which have undergone extensive testing over a period of several years. Since these materials are largely metals, such as titanium, and have never been living tissue, there is no likelihood of causing an antigen-antibody response which could cause rejection similar to that which sometimes occurs with heart and kidney transplants.”