How Do Dental Implants Work?
When you lose a tooth, the problem isn’t just the visible gap in your smile. The real issue is what happens underneath the surface. Natural teeth rely on roots that anchor into the jawbone, allowing you to chew comfortably, speak clearly, and maintain healthy bone structure. Dental implants are designed to replace that entire system, not just the part you can see.
Dental implants work by acting as an artificial tooth root that supports a replacement tooth that closely mimics natural function. Instead of sitting on the gums or relying on neighboring teeth to support it, an implant is placed directly into the jawbone, where it provides stability for everyday use. This is what allows dental implants to feel more natural and secure than many other tooth replacement options.
What A Dental Implant Actually Is
An implant is made up of three pieces: the implant post, the abutment, and the crown. The implant post is the foundation of the system. This small titanium post is placed into the jawbone and works as a replacement for the natural tooth root. Over time, typically three to six months, the bone heals around the implant in a process called osseointegration. This creates a base capable of supporting the replacement tooth.
The abutment is the connector between the implant and the crown. It attaches to the implant post and extends above the gumline and serves as the attachment point for the crown.
The crown is the only part of the implant that’s visible. It’s custom-made to match the surrounding teeth in color, size and shape, meaning it will blend right in. With the support of the implant and abutment beneath it, the crown can be used for normal chewing and speaking, just like a natural tooth.
How They Work With Your Jawbone
When a tooth is lost, the jawbone in that area no longer receives stimulation from chewing, which can lead to bone loss and changes in facial structure over time. A dental implant helps address this by replacing the tooth root and restoring natural stimulation. Because implants are anchored directly into the jawbone, they help preserve bone density and maintain facial shape over time. This direct connection to the bone is one of the reasons implants tend to feel more natural and remain more stable than alternatives that rest on the surface of the gums.
The Dental Implant Process
The dental implant process begins with a thorough evaluation to determine if the jawbone is strong enough to support an implant. If needed, preparatory treatments may be discussed before moving forward. Once ready, the implant post is placed surgically into the jawbone. A healing period of three to six months allows the implant to fully integrate with the bone. During this time a temporary crown or restoration is used to maintain appearance and function. After healing is complete, the abutment and final crown are placed, restoring the look and function of a natural tooth.
Dental Implants vs. Other Replacement Options
Dental implants aren’t the only tooth replacement option, with the most common alternatives being bridges and dentures.
With a dental bridge, the new teeth are supported by the neighboring teeth as opposed to the jaw. This makes them easier to install, but it may require altering the nearby teeth to hold the restoration in place.
Dentures are removable and rest on the gums. While they do restore some chewing ability, they tend to be less stable than implants and may require dietary adjustments. Over time, dentures may also need relining or replacement as the jawbone changes.
Tooth Replacement Like the Real Thing
Dental implants work by replacing both the visible tooth and the support structure beneath it. By anchoring directly into the jawbone, they provide a stable foundation that allows you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. This design helps dental implants function more like natural teeth than removable or surface-level solutions. It also means they’re built to last, often a lifetime with proper care.
At Epic Family Dental, we take a personalized approach to dental implant treatment, carefully planning each step to give our patients long-lasting results that feel natural. If you’re considering dental implants or want to understand more about how they work, our team is here to help you explore the best option for your smile.
Contact us today at (949) 492-3407 or by filling out the form below to take the first step.
