With dental implants, your should be able restore your smile’s natural function and appearance. In this post, we share some facts about what dental implants are and how the implant process works.
Are dental implants right for you?
Many of our patients believe that dental implants are an effective way to replace missing teeth and restore function to their smiles. However, it's important you understand exactly what dental implants are and how the implant process works if you're thinking about getting them to replace your missing teeth.
What are the parts of a dental implant?
The following are all the parts of a dental implant.
The Implant
While all three parts of the dental implant are a dental implant when grouped together, the actual ‘implant’ part is the tiny titanium screw that will be placed in your jaw. It’ll be put in the spot where the root of the missing tooth once sat.
This screw will serve as the artificial tooth's secure "root" or base. The implant screw will fuse with your jaw bone once the healing process at the implant site is finished, creating a solid foundation for the replacement tooth, such as a crown, bridge, or denture.
The dental implant process can be long. After implant placement surgery, the healing process usually takes between 4 to 6 months. When your mouth has healed completely, the next step in this dental implant process can start.
The Abutment
Abutment attachment is the second step in the dental implant process. This abutment, which is typically constructed of ceramic or titanium, fastens the restoration to the dental implant.
The Restoration
Your dentist attaches a restoration to the abutment after allowing enough time for healing. Depending on your treatment plan, this restoration could be a single implant-supported denture or bridge, or it could be multiple artificial teeth.
Bridge
Typically made from porcelain, a dental bridge can be used to replace a number of missing teeth side-by-side. This restoration can be attached to just two implants that hold it in place.
Crown
A single tooth can be replaced with a crown, and a crown can be cemented or screwed to the abutment to create an artificial tooth that should look and function similar to a natural tooth. Dental crowns can be made from ceramic, or a mixture of porcelain and metal.
Dentures
Implant-supported dentures can replace an entire jaw of missing teeth. They are usually made of porcelain or acrylic. Implant-supported dentures are attached to dental implants to try and create a natural-looking, secure tooth replacement. In contrast, conventional dentures are removable.
Note: This post is for informational purposes only. InHarmony Dental Care does not offer dental implants.