A dental implant is an artificial tooth root used to support restorations that resemble a tooth or group of teeth. Dental implants provide a foundation for teeth replacement that look, feel, and function just like natural teeth. With permanent dental implants, a person who has lost teeth will be able to eat and smile with confidence. They appear similar to an actual tooth root and are placed within the bone. Dental implants can be used to support a number of dental prostheses, including crowns, implant-supported bridges or dentures.