An implant is a small titanium fixture that serves as the replacement for the root portion of a missing natural tooth. The implant is surgically placed in the upper or lower jaw. It will bond with the bone over time and thus serve as an anchor for the replacement tooth. The patient may need to allow up to six months for the bone to grow around the anchor and firmly hold it into place. Some implants require a second surgery in which a post is attached to connect the anchor to the replacement teeth. With other implants, the anchor and post are already attached and can be placed at the same time. After the healing phase, restorative teeth are made and fitted to the post portion of the anchor. Implants can replace one or more teeth, add support to a partial denture, or be used to attach a full denture. Patients who have implants report that the artificial teeth look and feel natural and are very secure when chewing.