Providing a permanent solution to tooth loss, a dental implant replaces the root and the missing tooth. Unlike dentures and other solutions, it essentially becomes part of your anatomy. Implants provide aesthetics, function, and lasting results. The implant consists of a few main parts. To help you understand what it is, we will explain the anatomy of a dental implant and its main elements.
Implant Screw/Post
The post is a screw-like part made of titanium. It is surgically implanted into the jaw bone after an incision in the gum is made, and a hole is drilled into the bone. The post fuses with the bone in a process called osseointegration. It takes several months for the jawbone to heal around the implant, forming a bond as strong as that between natural tooth roots and the jawbone.
If only one tooth needs to be replaced, you’ll receive one implant. If multiple teeth are being replaced, the surgeon will use several implants to support them.
Abutment
An abutment is very important to the anatomy of a dental implant. It attaches to the top of the implant post and is essentially a type of connector. Although it sits above the gum line, it is not visible. The gum is reopened to insert the abutment into the implant. Your gums will heal around it. After a couple of weeks, the prosthetic component (or replacement tooth) is attached to the abutment.
Prosthesis
The restoration step is what’s most commonly associated with a dental implant. Although the implant is an artificial root, the prosthesis replaces one or more missing teeth. A dental crown replaces one tooth. It is cemented on top of the abutment. Dental bridges replace multiple missing teeth and can be supported by a dental implant instead of being attached to adjacent teeth. An implant-supported denture can also be used and is often an option for patients who wear dentures or need most of their teeth extracted.
How the Anatomy of a Dental Implant Protects Your Health
Dental implants are effective for restoring function and aesthetics. They allow a person to bite, chew, and feel comfortable with their smile. Another benefit is they help prevent bone loss. After losing a tooth, the bone tissue in that area can erode due to the lack of a stimulus. This can affect an individual’s facial structure and overall appearance. Dental implants do the opposite, they enable the jawbone to regenerate instead.
Learn More from OraBell Dental Implants
OraBell Dental Implant Center is a state-of-the-art dental clinic in the San Fernando Valley. Using the latest technologies and techniques, we effectively restore teeth with dental implants. Starting with a 3D CBCT scan, we assess patients’ dental anatomy and plan a procedure based on their individual needs. We can replace a single tooth or address complex dental problems. All the while, we ensure patients are physically and emotionally comfortable, and the procedure causes minimal disruption in activities.
Continue browsing to learn more about our implant procedure. Book your free consultation by calling OraBell Dental Implant Center at 818-739-8736 today.
