What Is a Dental Implant?

A Permanent Foundation for Your Smile

A dental implant is a small titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone to replace the root of a missing tooth. Once it fuses with the surrounding bone — a process called osseointegration — it provides a stable, permanent anchor for a custom-made crown, bridge, or full-arch prosthesis. The result is a replacement tooth that looks, feels, and functions virtually identically to a natural tooth.

Implants are made from medical-grade titanium, a material that is exceptionally biocompatible and has been used safely in dental and orthopedic surgery for decades. Unlike traditional bridges, which require grinding down adjacent healthy teeth, implants stand completely on their own. Unlike dentures, they are fixed in place and do not slip or require adhesives. With proper care, a well-placed implant can last a lifetime — making it one of the most cost-effective long-term investments in your oral health.

Am I a Candidate?

Who Is a Good Candidate for Implants?

  • Adequate bone density and volume — sufficient jawbone is needed to support the implant. Patients with bone loss may require a bone graft prior to placement.
  • Healthy gums — active gum disease must be treated before implant surgery to ensure a healthy foundation.
  • Good overall health — most healthy adults are candidates. Certain conditions such as uncontrolled diabetes or blood disorders may require additional evaluation.
  • Non-smoker or willing to quit — smoking significantly impairs healing and reduces implant success rates. We strongly encourage patients to stop smoking before and after surgery.
  • Commitment to oral hygiene — long-term implant success depends on consistent brushing, flossing, and regular professional maintenance.

The best way to determine whether implants are right for you is through a comprehensive consultation with our surgical team, which includes 3D imaging to assess your bone and anatomy in detail. Even patients who have been told they are not candidates elsewhere may have options — including bone grafting or specialized remote anchorage techniques.

The Process

Step by Step

1. Consultation

Your journey begins with a comprehensive evaluation including a clinical examination, review of your medical and dental history, and cone beam CT (3D) imaging. This gives our surgeon a complete picture of your bone volume, anatomy, and overall oral health — and forms the foundation of your personalized treatment plan.

2. Treatment Planning

Using advanced digital planning software, your surgeon maps the ideal position, angulation, and depth of your implant on a virtual 3D model of your anatomy. In many cases, a custom surgical guide is fabricated from this plan to ensure millimeter-level precision during surgery.

3. Implant Placement

The surgical appointment is performed under local anesthesia with sedation options available. A small channel is made in the bone and the titanium implant is carefully seated into position. Most patients are surprised by how comfortable and efficient the procedure is. Any necessary bone grafting is completed at this stage if not done previously.

4. Healing (Osseointegration)

Over the next three to six months, the implant gradually fuses with the surrounding bone in a process called osseointegration. During this time, you will wear a temporary restoration if needed and return for follow-up visits so our team can monitor your healing progress.

5. Final Restoration

Once osseointegration is confirmed, you return to your restorative dentist for placement of the final crown, bridge, or prosthesis. NorthStar coordinates directly with your restorative provider throughout the process to ensure the final result fits perfectly and functions beautifully.

Ready to Begin?

Schedule Your Implant Consultation

Whether you are missing one tooth or many, dental implants may be the life-changing solution you have been looking for. Our team at NorthStar Implant Dentistry brings together advanced surgical training, state-of-the-art technology, and a genuine commitment to patient care. Contact us today to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a permanent, confident smile.