Anyone who wants to replace missing or damaged teeth should consider dental implants. Unlike other dental treatments which may rest on the gums or use healthy teeth as supports, dental implants can be wonderful long-term replacements. Dental implants are "root" replacement devices that fix into the jawbone. During a process known as osseointegration, the bone grows around the implant, anchoring it firmly in the jaw and creating a foundation for a replacement tooth.

Typically, dental implants consist of a titanium fastener which resembles a tooth root, and which may have a coarse or smooth surface. Plasma spraying, anodizing, etching or sandblasting are all used to increase the surface area and the bonding potential of the implant.

The time required for dental implants to bond with the jaw, or become "osseointegrated", is debated widely by dental practitioners. Generally, dentists allow 2–6 months after implant placement for healing. "Loading" is the next step in the process; this is when the crowns, bridges or dentures are attached to the implant. Preliminary studies show that early loading of implant may not increase complications; however, many oral surgeons feel that waiting is the best way to protect their patient's dental health. It is possible if the implant was loaded too quickly after placement, it may move. The resulting period needed to heal, possibly bone graft and eventually perform a new placement may take up to one and a half years.

Most dentists will consider two main factors when qualifying you for dental implant treatment. These factors are gum health and sufficient bone to support the implants. Dentists are now able to rebuild enough bone for implant treatment, which means even in extreme cases where there is insufficient bone; many will still be able to receive implants. Conditions that could cause complications if not managed properly include diabetes, osteoporosis or bleeding disorders. Anyone considering dental implant treatment should discuss these conditions with their dentist thoroughly. After a thorough dental examination, as well as some x-rays to see the condition of the bone, your dentist will be able to advise you as to how appropriate dental implants would be for you.

There are a few alternatives to implant dentistry. These include fixed bridges and partial or full removable dentures; however, these treatments can have serious drawbacks. For instance, a bridge placement may require cutting down healthy teeth that would not have needed restoration, which may compromise oral health long-term. Bridges also have a tendency to wear down over time, and may eventually need to be replaced. Partial dentures also have been shown to cause damage to adjacent teeth, and full dentures have been associated with bone loss. Dental implants provide a refreshing long-term treatment for missing teeth, without many of the drawbacks of the alternative treatments.

The American Dental Association does not yet recognize any dental implant treatment specialty. Although the success of dental implant surgery depends on a variety of factors, the consensus is that dental implants carry a success rate of around 95%, making them one of the most successful dental procedures. Important elements of a successful dental implant placement include the experience and ability of your dental practitioner, the amount of bone and the health of the bone, and your individual oral hygiene and health. Generally speaking, dental implants are a safe and practical permanent method of tooth replacement.