Dental implants are an option available to replace missing teeth. A dental implant is a titanium rod that is fused to the jawbone in order to function as the tooth root, which will support a dental crown. To replace multiple missing teeth, a few implants can hold a bridge, dentures, or partial dentures. The replacement teeth will look and function like natural teeth and can improve a person’s ability to smile, speak, and chew properly.

Although dentures and bridges that are supported by the natural tooth root can remedy many of the problems associated with missing teeth, they cannot prevent future bone loss the way dental implants can. This is why dental implants are often recommended to most patients who need to replace missing teeth.

Few people know that when a tooth is lost, the lack of stimulation to the supporting jawbone causes a decrease in bone volume and density over time (atrophy). As the jawbone shrinks, the overlying muscle and skin collapse along with it, which can make a person appear older than their actual age.

Dr. John Costandi

Dr. John Costandi is a Board Certified Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeon. He graduated from Boston University School of Dental Medicine, where he was nominated and inducted into the BU Chapter of OKU Honor Society. He then completed his Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery training at Columbia University/New York Presbyterian Hospital in NYC. During his time at Columbia University, he earned his medical degree from Columbia University College of Physicians and Surgeons, completed a one-year internship in General Surgery, and served as Chief Resident during his last year of training. He received the interdepartmental resident of the month award for his compassionate nature and exemplary patient care.
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