Mark Gurarie is a freelance writer, editor, and adjunct lecturer of writing composition at George Washington University.

Edmund Khoo, DDS, is board-certified in orthodontics and is a Diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics.

When you lose an adult tooth, it’s important for your dental health that you get it replaced. If you don’t, you risk teeth shifting, further instability in the mouth, and additional tooth loss. It may also cause damage to the underlying bone. One option for replacing lost teeth is an endosteal implant, which is often referred to as a dental implant. In a multi-step surgery, this type of implant is permanently embedded into your upper or lower jaw bone.

This article explains who would be a good candidate for an endosteal implant, what the implantation procedure is like, and how to take care of an implant once you have it.

There are two primary types of dental implants used to replace missing teeth:

Poj Theveenugul / EyeEm / Getty Images

Since endosteal implants are embedded into bone, the procedure can be invasive and requires significant recovery time. Thus, the treatment may not be appropriate in all cases. It’s not recommended for children or teens whose jawbones are still growing and developing.

In addition, the following conditions may rule you out as a candidate for endosteal implants:

Before getting an endosteal implant, you may have to undergo treatment for or otherwise manage these conditions.  

The surgery to place a dental implant is relatively invasive, which means it requires some deep incisions. This work is performed by an oral or maxillofacial surgeon. Typically, the surgery is done under local anesthesia, so you’ll remain awake with your mouth numbed.

There are three main steps to the endosteal implant procedure:

If multiple teeth are missing, a dental bridge—a false tooth or group of teeth—can be attached to the implant. Also, dental implants can be used to stabilize rows of dentures if many teeth are missing.

If the bone mass in the upper jaw (maxilla ) or lower jaw (mandible ) is insufficient, they won’t be able to hold the implant in place. To ensure a successful dental implant, additional procedures may be required. These include:

With every stage of the procedure—and especially following installation of the endosteal implant body into the bone—you’ll feel some after-effects, including:

Within the first week after surgery, a critical period for recovery, there are several things to keep in mind:

You’ll also be instructed on how to properly clean and care for your implant, such as how to brush and floss safely. Follow those directions closely and be ready to come back in for a follow-up within two weeks.

Call your health care provider if you experience:

Home care after an endosteal implant involves maintaining good dental hygiene; you’ll want to brush properly twice a day, floss daily and keep up with regular dental check-ups. In addition, smoking increases the chance of complications, so you should try to stop if you can.

Early on, you may experience pain and soreness. At-home treatments to help you recover include:

Though complications of endosteal implants can be serious, overall, they are relatively rare. It’s a highly successful procedure. A vast majority—about 90% to 95%—of implants successfully incorporate into the jaw and correct the missing tooth without problems or complications.   

If the underlying bone structure is insufficient or there are too many underlying health conditions, endosteal implants aren’t likely to be successful. Other means of correcting missing teeth include:

Endosteal implants are dental implants that replace missing teeth. A surgical screw or cylinder (the implant body) is embedded into the jaw, and a post, or abutment, is installed. Once the bone has grown around the body and it’s strong enough, the oral surgeon positions a permanent crown on top.

Following the procedure, you may experience some discomfort and pain, and you’ll need to avoid difficult-to-chew foods. Pain medications, icing, and keeping up with follow-up appointments are essential during recovery.

Not only can endosteal implants restore the appearance of your teeth—giving you back your confidence—they’re needed to prevent subsequent dental health issues. If you’re missing a tooth or multiple teeth, it’s worth exploring your options. The sooner you start the conversation, the sooner you'll recover your smile.    

It depends on the specific case and whether you require pre-treatments, such as dental extractions. Endosteal implants are typically three-stage procedures that require multiple appointments with extra time needed to allow for healing. Typically, the course of treatment is six to eight months.

Dental implants are highly durable and are intended to be permanent replacements for teeth. Over time, bone material grows around the screw or cylinder that supports the implant. Long-term adverse effects are rare. However, gum disease or other issues can arise due to poor oral hygiene.  

There are many factors to consider before deciding if it's right. Implants blend in with existing teeth, and upkeep only requires good oral hygiene habits and regular check-ups. However, implantation can be a lengthy process, which may make it difficult for some people. Also, those with poor oral health may not be able to have the procedure. Other options can be considered, such as fixed bridges and partial or full dentures.

Especially in the first week, you’ll have to avoid hard-to-chew foods and smoking and take care when brushing and flossing. Once the implants are in, keep up with good oral hygiene habits and dental cleanings and check-ups.

It depends on your dental plan. Sometimes they are covered only under certain circumstances such as in the case of an accident or to prevent complications of missing teeth. If you do get coverage, make sure you have a good sense of what’s covered and what your deductible is.

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