If a tooth has been lost, or extracted, the gap can be replaced with a bridge, denture or implant. Dental implants are Titanium posts that are surgically placed into your bone. The bone quickly grows around the implant. Once the implant has been anchored by the bone, the implant is prepared to accept the prosthetic - wether it be dentures, bridges or any combination. Your new tooth or teeth will look, feel and function like your own. Dental implants currently provide some of the finest restorative results in dentistry. The first implants were put in place almost 40 years ago and are still functioning perfectly. There is no time limit on the life expectancy of successful implants. The time it takes to place the implants will depend on the number of implants recommended. The procedure usually requires 30 - 45 minutes per implant.