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 of an implant restoration. Learn more about the parts of a dental implant from our Argyle, TX, dental implant professionals.
Parts of a Dental Implant in Argyle, TX
A dental restoration supported by dental implants is different from other ways to replace teeth. It has several parts that work together to create a strong and natural-looking tooth replacement. Each part is important for making sure your new smile lasts a long time, stays stable, and looks great.
By understanding the roles and interactions of these parts, you can better understand how dental implant restoration works. The parts of a dental implant restoration include:
The Implant Post: The Dental Implant Foundation
The implant post is the essential foundation for a dental implant. At Argyle Family Dentistry, your dentist will carefully place this biocompatible titanium post into your jawbone through a minor surgery. Over time, the implant post fuses with your jawbone in a process called osseointegration, where bone tissue grows around the post to create a strong and stable base. This allows the implant post to act like a natural tooth root, supporting your new tooth securely.
The implant post is specially designed to handle the forces of biting and chewing, making it one of the strongest tooth replacement options. Unlike other replacements, the implant post provides long-lasting durability and function. Its surface is often treated or roughened to improve bonding with the bone, ensuring that it stays firmly in place for years to come.
The Abutment: Connecting the Implant Post to the Dental Restoration
This small but essential piece connects the implant post to your final dental restoration, like a crown or bridge. It helps the dental restoration work smoothly with the implant post to give you a strong and stable replacement for your missing tooth.
Abutments come in different shapes, sizes, and materials to fit the specific needs of various implant restorations. Some are straight, while others are angled to match the position of your implant and comfortably fit your smile.
During the dental implant process, our dentist will attach the abutment to the implant post to create a sturdy base for the dental restoration. This secure connection helps distribute the pressure of biting and chewing from the dental restoration to the implant post and down to your jawbone. It provides a natural and durable feel.
Different Types of Dental Restorations
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.
Dental Crown
A dental crown is made to look and feel like a natural tooth. Shaped like a tooth, it’s placed over a single implant post and secured with an abutment. A dental crown is perfect for replacing one missing tooth, bringing back both the appearance and function of your natural tooth. With a crown, you’ll be able to chew and smile with confidence.
Dental Bridge
If you’re missing several teeth in a row, a dental bridge can be the ideal solution. A bridge fills in the gap left by missing teeth by anchoring to nearby natural teeth or implant posts for support. This type of restoration creates a strong, stable replacement for multiple teeth, helping you eat and speak comfortably while completing your smile.
Dentures
For those with several missing teeth or total tooth loss, dentures are often the best option. Dentures are custom-made to replace an entire row of missing teeth, whether it’s the top, bottom, or both rows. They help restore the look of your smile and make it easier to eat and speak. With dentures, patients can regain much of the function and confidence they may have lost with missing teeth.
How Long Does It Take To Get Implants?
Getting dental implants is a process that takes time. First, you need to have a consultation with your dentist to see if you’re a good candidate for implants. This can take a few days to a week.
Once you’re approved, the actual placement of the implant usually takes about one to two hours. After that, you need time for the implant to heal and fuse with your jawbone. This healing period can take anywhere from three to six months.
After healing, you will return to the dentist to have an abutment (a small connector) placed on the implant. Then, you’ll need to wait for your custom dental crown to be made, which can take a few weeks.
Overall, the process from the first consultation to getting your final crown can take four to eight months. Each person’s situation is different, so it’s best to talk with your dentist for a more accurate timeline based on your needs.
While it takes time to get an implant restoration, it’s worth it for many patients. Implant restorations last longer than removable or traditional restorations.
Restore Your Missing Teeth Today
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. If you have questions about implant treatment, let us know. We’re here to help.