Waterford Family and Cosmetic Dentistry offers dental implants in Leland, NC. This advaned treatment offers patients the most natural tooth replacement solution. We encourage our patients to learn more about what they are. Continue reading to learn more about the three components of a dental implant restoration.
The 3 Parts of a Dental Implant Restoration
Dental implants typically have 3 parts; the implant post, the abutment, and the prosthesis. These components work together to create a stable and functional tooth replacement system. The success of dental implants relies on the integration of these parts and their ability to provide long-term support for the patient’s oral health.
Implant Fixture
The implant fixture is the component that is surgically placed into the jawbone. It resembles a screw and is very durable yet lightweight. This part serves as an artificial tooth root by replacing the missing teeth roots and will support the false teeth.
Most implant fixtures are made of biocompatible materials like titanium. This type of material is well-accepted by the human body. The implant fixture will fuse to the bone after surgery. During a process called osseointegration, the bone cells attach to the fixture creating a strong bond.
Sizes of Implant Fixtures
They are available in different sizes to accommodate different locations along the jaw. A standard dental implant is usually used in the front or middle part of the jaw because they are skinnier. These areas generally have adequate bone density and aesthetics are crucial. Standard implants suit regions with lower biting forces and contribute to a natural appearance in the visible areas of the smile.
A wide platform implant is primarily placed in the back of the mouth, on either side of the jaw. This is because wide-platform implants offer a larger surface area. It distributes the load more evenly and provides better support in areas with lower bone density. They also offer greater stability where there are often greater biting forces and chewing pressures.
A mini dental implant is a smaller-diameter implant used for specific cases. Dentists use them when there is limited space or reduced bone volume along the jaw. Mini implants are commonly used to stabilize dentures, especially in the lower jaw.
Abutment
The abutment is a crucial component in a dental implant system. It is a tiny metal connector piece that attaches to the dental implant. It protrudes above the gumline and serves as the link between the implant fixture and dental restoration.
Abutments are secured during a second, minor surgery. The dentist will uncover the implant fixture and secure the abutment to the implants. They are often custom-designed for each dental implant case. However, there are also stock abutments that patients can choose to use.
Sometimes a healing abutment is placed on the implant fixture during the implant placement surgery. In these cases, a second surgery is not necessary to place the abutment. The healing abutment will simply be replaced with a permanent one later in the treatment timeline.
Prosthesis
The final component of this sophisticated tooth-replacement system is the prosthesis. This is the visible part that will resemble and function like a natural tooth or teeth. Depending on how many teeth are missing, this will be a dental crown, dental bridge, or denture.
We will create a natural-looking prosthetic that will blend in with your natural teeth in color, shape, and size. Our goal is to create a seamless and aesthetically pleasing smile. Patients missing one tooth will receive a custom dental crown. Patients missing several consecutive teeth will receive a custom dental bridge. Patients missing most or all of their teeth on the top or bottom arch will receive a custom full or partial denture.
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To learn more about the parts of a dental implant in Leland, NC, please call us at 910-519-1624. You can also request an appointment online.