An implant comes in two parts. The first is an artificial root made from ultra-pure titanium that replaces the root of a missing tooth. It can be placed in either the upper or lower jaw and in time will bond with the jawbone. The second part is what is attached to the dental implant root.
Dental implant treatment is a minor surgical procedure that is carried out under local anaesthetic and has been performed for many years, with an excellent success rate.
Most people aged over 18 and in reasonably good health can have dental implants.
In a healthy person with a healthy mouth and bone, implant roots (the metal part) should last as long as natural teeth. They need caring for as natural teeth do. The crowns or bridges supported by the implants can last a decade or more.