If a tooth has been lost, or extracted , the gap can be replaced with a bridge , denture , or implant.
Dental implants are metal, or carbon posts that are surgically placed into the bone.
The bone quickly grows around the implant attaching itself to the rough outer surface. Once the implant has been anchored by the bone, the implant is prepared to accept the prosthetic. Crowns , a bridge , or stabilized denture may be attached to the implant. Since these must be carefully constructed to match the opposing tooth and ensure a correct bite, several impressions of the teeth are taken and sent to a lab which will construct the prosthetics. . Two implants are used to anchor a bridge.