A dental implant is a restoration commonly used for restoring the smile after tooth loss. Implants are made of titanium metal, a material that is biocompatible with the body and will not rust or erode. The implant is put into the bone of the jaw during oral surgery which stimulates the natural growth of the jaw bone through osseointegration. This is where implants get their strength. After the implant is solidified in place, the dentist will restore the implant using a crown, bridge, or full denture. Dental implants can replace one or more teeth in this manner.