A titanium post is placed in to the jaw bone to replace the roots of the missing tooth. Once the implant has integrated into the bone, which can take a few months, a custom-made crown is screwed directly onto it. During the integration period, a temporary tooth can be fitted, so the post is never visible. Implants offer significant benefits over alternative methods of filling single-tooth gaps. The titanium post replacing the root of the tooth helps preserve the jawbone, preventing shrinkage and potential movement of other teeth. An implant also avoids any need to damage the teeth either side of the gap, preserving healthy teeth.