Dental implants are man-made replacements for natural teeth. The implants themselves are artificial tooth roots anchored in the gum or jawbone, on which replacement teeth are permanently secured. Because implanted teeth are fixed in the mouth—rather than being removable, like dentures—they allow a return to the comfort & function of natural teeth. Increased chewing ability means you can enjoy more nutritious foods, contributing to your overall health & well-being. In short, dental implants improve the quality of your life. They can improve your appearance, boost your self-confidence & allow you to speak with greater clarity. This restorative dentistry treatment can be finished in three to five visits over the space of about 4–8 months. Not all patients are eligible for dental implants. Generally, you must be in good general & oral health to be a candidate for implants. Those who are undergoing cancer treatment, have uncontrolled diabetes or uncontrolled periodontal (gum) disease, may not be eligible for dental implants. These conditions can affect whether the dental implant can be properly secured into the bone of your jaw, & can also affect post-operative outcomes. In creating your dental implant treatment plan, the dentist will assess all of the relevant health factors & advise you accordingly.