Dental implant surgery

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Definition

By Mayo Clinic staff

Dental implant surgery is a procedure that replaces damaged or missing teeth with artificial teeth that look and function much like real ones. Dental implant surgery can offer a welcome alternative to ill-fitting dentures or bridgework.

How the surgery is performed depends on the type of implant and the condition of your jawbone. But all dental implant surgery occurs in stages and involves several procedures. The entire process can take many months.

Although most adults are candidates for the procedure, dental implant surgery is expensive and often not covered by insurance. Still, if you have difficulty eating or talking or simply want better looking teeth you may find that dental implant surgery is well worth the time and expense.

Why it's done

MY00084

June 27, 2008

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