Implants are basically root forms that are placed inside your jaw bone by an oral surgeon or periodontist. The patient must first be evaluated radiographically and clinically by both the general dentist and the surgeon to see if he/she is a candidate for implants. The determining factors are the patients pre-existing medical conditions, the amount of bone present (both quality and quantity), the patients oral hygiene status, etc. If all these criteria are satisfied, then success of the implant now and long-term can be realistically appreciated. Once placed, they generally stay undisturbed for a period of six months to a year to achieve osseointegration, the inter-weaving of the bone matrix within and surrounding the implant to secure it. Once sufficient osseointegration is achieved, the restorative phase can be undertaken. Implants can be for single tooth replacement, for bridges, and for partial or complete dentures. Each of the following applications, requires a specific type of implant.