Are you ready to say goodbye to gaps in your smile and embrace the confidence that comes with a full set of teeth? Dental implants could be the dental restoration solution you’ve been looking for.
Oral Facial & Implant Specialists offer various dental implant options to fit your needs and goals, including All-on-4 implants and implant-supported dentures. Call us at (847) 381-0106 to schedule your free dental implant consultation today!
Before starting your transformative journey, it’s important to understand the different parts of a dental implant. This guide will explain the parts of a dental implant, how implants work and the potential risks involved with this dental procedure.
What Are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a remarkable solution to replace missing teeth. They involve implanting an artificial tooth root into your jawbone, providing a strong and stable foundation for a natural-looking replacement tooth (or multiple teeth).
Unlike conventional dentures and dental bridges, implants fuse to your jawbone, mimicking the structure and function of natural teeth.
Key Takeaway
The dental implant system consists of three key parts: the implant, the abutment, and the dental prosthesis, each playing a significant role in the tooth replacement process. With proper oral hygiene and regular dental checkups, dental implants can offer a long-lasting replacement for missing teeth.
Parts of a Dental Implant: The Key Players
A dental implant has three main parts: the implant fixture, the abutment, and the dental prosthesis. Let’s take a closer look at each component.
1. The Implant: The Root of Your New Smile
The implant, also known as the implant post, is essentially the artificial tooth root. This tiny screw made of biocompatible titanium is surgically placed into your jawbone.
Over time, the titanium post fuses with your bone through osseointegration, to provide a solid foundation for your new tooth.
2. The Abutment: Your Tooth’s Anchor and Grip
The abutment is a connector piece attached to the implant fixture. Like a reliable anchor, it securely holds your dental prosthesis (the visible part of your dental implant) in place.
After the surgical implantation of the fixture, a healing abutment is placed onto the implant that allows your gums to heal around it before the final restoration is completed.
3. The Dental Prosthesis: Your Replacement Tooth or Teeth
The dental prosthesis is the visible part of the dental implant system. These prosthetic teeth are crafted to replicate the appearance and function of your natural teeth.
Depending on your needs, it can be a single dental crown (for a single missing tooth), a dental bridge (to replace multiple missing teeth), or even implant-supported dentures (to replace an entire arch of missing teeth).
How Dental Implants Work: The Life-Changing Procedure
The dental implant process is a multi-stage surgical procedure, which includes:
- Implant fixture placement
- Abutment attachment
- Dental prosthesis placement
The entire process typically takes three to six months, as healing and osseointegration must occur between stages.
Why Choose Dental Implants?
Dental implants are an excellent solution for missing teeth. Here’s why:
- Natural teeth preservation: Implants don’t require alteration or support from adjacent natural teeth, unlike traditional bridges, which require grinding down healthy teeth.
- Jawbone preservation: Implants help maintain jawbone integrity, as the titanium post stimulates the bone, preventing the shrinkage that occurs with bone loss.
- Stability & function: Implants provide a secure foundation for dental prosthetics so you can eat and speak confidently.
- Longevity: With proper oral hygiene, dental implants can last a lifetime.
Learn more about dental implant pros, cons, and long-term benefits in our blog, Are Dental Implants Worth the Cost?
Dental Implant Care
Oral hygiene is essential to maintain the longevity of your dental implant and fend off potential gum diseases and other dental problems. To keep your implant and surrounding tissue healthy, follow these simple steps:
- Use a soft-bristle toothbrush to brush your teeth at least twice daily.
- Remove plaque and food debris around the implant with daily flossing.
- Schedule regular dental checkups and professional cleanings to remove any plaque buildup.
- Avoid using tobacco products, which can jeopardize the success of your dental implant.
Potential Risks and Complications
Like any surgical procedure, dental implant surgery involves risks and potential complications. These include but are not limited to
- Infection at the implant site
- Damage to surrounding teeth or structures during the placement process
- Nerve damage, leading to numbness, tingling, or pain in the lips, gums, or chin
- Dental implant failure
Read our blog, Signs of Dental Implant Failure: What You Need To Know, to learn how to identify early signs of dental implant failure and take preventive measures for a successful procedure.
Are You Ready for Your New Smile?
Missing teeth can lead to problems such as difficulty chewing, self-consciousness, and even bone loss. Traditional dentures and bridges are not always the most effective solution, as they can be uncomfortable and inconvenient.
At Oral Facial & Implant Specialists, our experienced oral and maxillofacial surgeons, Dr. Travis Thompson and Dr. Stephen Martin will provide personalized care and help you achieve the smile you deserve.
With our state-of-the-art dental implant technology, we can provide you with a permanent, natural-looking solution to replace missing teeth. Don’t wait any longer, let us help transform your life with dental implants!
Say hello to a natural-looking, long-lasting smile with the best oral surgeon in Deer Park, IL. Call (847) 381-0106 or complete the online booking form for your free dental implant consultation.
Frequently Asked Questions
The implant fixture and abutment are typically the most expensive parts of a dental implant. However, the overall cost may vary depending on the number of implants needed, the type of prosthetic teeth used, and any additional procedures required.
A dental implant consists of three main parts: the implant fixture, abutment, and dental prosthesis. The fixture is placed in the jawbone and connected to the prosthesis via the abutment. The prosthesis is the visible component that replaces missing teeth.
The healing process for dental implants typically takes three to six months but can extend up to a year. Osseointegration, the fusion of the implant with the jawbone, continues even after the initial healing period.
For tips on a smooth recovery after dental implants, please read our blog, How To Heal Faster After Dental Implant Surgery.
If you are searching for dental implants near me, contact Oral Facial & Implant Specialists.
