As dental professionals, Dr. Brandon Hooper and Dr. William Jennings have witnessed firsthand the transformative power of dental implants. These dental restorations have changed the way dentists approach missing teeth. Teeth implants offer a long-lasting and natural-looking solution for people missing any number of teeth. As the number one solution for tooth loss, it is crucial to understand the different parts that make up an implant restoration. Please continue reading to learn more about the parts of a dental implant from our Argyle, TX, dental implant professionals.
Parts of a Dental Implant
A dental restoration supported by dental implants is unlike other teeth replacement options. It is comprised of several parts that work together to create a sophisticated tooth replacement solution. Each parts plays a crucial role in ensuring your new smile’s longevity, stability, and aesthetic appeal.
By understanding the roles and interactions of these parts, you can better understand how a dental implant restoration works. The parts of a dental implant restoration include:
The Implant Post: The Dental Implant Restoration Foundation
The implant post is the basis of a successful dental implant restoration. Your Argyle Family Dentistry dentist will surgically place this biocompatible titanium screw-like post into your jawbone. The implant post will fuse with the bone tissue through osseointegration. Once the implant post is ready, it is strong and stable enough to secure the restoration. The implant posts will act as a natural tooth root.
The implant post’s design is squarely engineered to withstand the vast forces of chewing and biting. This part makes an implant restoration better than other tooth replacement solutions, ensuring long-term durability and functionality. Its surface is often treated or roughened to promote better osseointegration, enhancing the bond between the implant and your jawbone.
The Abutment: Connecting the Implant Post to the Dental Restoration
The abutment is the vital link between the implant post and the final dental restoration. This small yet crucial part is carefully designed to ensure a secure and precise fit, enabling the dental restoration to function seamlessly with the implant post.
Abutments come in various shapes, sizes, and materials. This is to accommodate the specific requirements of different dental implant restorations and implant posts. Some abutments are designed to be straight, while others feature angled shapes to accommodate the unique positioning of your implant post.
During the dental implant process, your dentist will secure the abutment to the implant post, providing a stable platform for the dental restoration. This connection ensures a secure fit and allows for the seamless transfer of biting and chewing forces from the dental restoration to the implant post and, ultimately, to your jawbone.
Different Types of Dental Restorations: Dentures, Dental Bridges, and Dental Crowns
Once the implant post and abutment are in place, the final step is to attach the dental restoration. Your dental restoration is the visible portion of the entire tooth replacement system. It replicates the natural appearance and function of your missing tooth or teeth. You may receive a dental crown, dental bridge, or denture depending on your needs.
Dr. Hooper or Dr. Jennings will take dental impressions, then a dental lab will use them to create a crown, bridge, or denture. Our dental restorations are made from the best, high-quality materials that will mimic the appearance of your surrounding teeth. We create restorations that will blend in seamlessly and create a uniform smile.
- A dental crown is shaped like a tooth and then placed over a single implant post and abutment. It restores the appearance and function of a single missing tooth.
- A dental bridge is the ideal solution when multiple teeth are missing. A bridge is a dental restoration that closes the gap created by the missing teeth, anchoring to the adjacent teeth or implant posts for support.
- Dentures may be the most suitable dental restoration option for patients with a lot of missing teeth or total tooth loss. Dentures can replace a whole row of missing teeth, restoring aesthetics and function.
You must understand how the intricate anatomy of a dental implant restoration works. With this knowledge, you are better equipped to make a decision that will impact your oral health for decades to come. To learn more about the parts of a dental implant in Argyle, TX, contact Argyle Family Dentistry to book your consultation. You can reach us at 940-531-9753 or book an appointment online.