- What is a dental implant?
The dental implant is an artificial root like an anchor, often in titanium, placed in the bone to replace one or several missing teeth. In good conditions, the implant is progressively integrated in the maxillary bone : this is called the osseointegration.
On this artificial root, the dental surgeon may set a crown after a few weeks or months according to the implant type and bone quality.

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- Who can treat me?
I can ask a dental surgeon, a stomatologist or a maxillofacial surgeon. My practitioner, if he doesn't place implants himself, will be able to advise me a colleague. Numerous dental care centers perform this surgery.
A first radiographic check up ( OPG ) will be done, often in association with a 3D radiography ( CT scan ), to assess the bone quality and quantity in the chosen site, in order to specify the implant that will be placed.

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- What's the principle of the surgery?
The surgery is performed with local anaesthesia at the practitioner's dental office if he is equipped for this type of surgery, or in operating theatre. A drilling will permit to prepare the implant site in the bone. This is generally neither more restricting no more painful than a tooth extraction.

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- Is there any medical reason that may prevent from placing a dental implant?
Yes, long-term pathologies, particularly cardiac or diabetic ones, can contraindicate the placement of dental implants.
Furthermore, radiotherapy background makes the bone weaker and contraindicates the dental implant. Also, autoimmune diseases, like multiple sclerosis often don't allow, to perform this surgery. Some diseases can temporary contraindicate the surgery, like pathologies treated with anticoagulant or major nervous breakdown. But, there are only very few absolute contraindications and so it's essential to point out all medical background and old current treatments.

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- What are the local factors to consider?
A good oral hygiene, a constant follow-up and a healthy gingival state are essential. An annual visit to your dental practitioner will be useful to ensure, with a constant check-up, the lasting of implants in your mouth.
Implants are replacement roots like your real roots, you'll be able to naturally eat, drink and smile.
Alliance of esthetic and functionnal will give you the desire to make the most of life.

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