What are the parts of a dental implant?

Your dentist might have recommended a dental implant to replace missing teeth, but have you ever wondered about the parts and processes that will work together to help you feel comfortable living with an implant? Today, our Canmore dentists discuss the main parts of a dental implant.

What is a dental implant?

Dental implants can be surgically placed into the jawbone to replace a missing tooth and protect your oral health. When combined with a crown or other tooth replacement, implants have a natural look and feel.

They can aid in the treatment of a variety of oral health issues, stop the repositioning of neighbouring teeth, ease jaw pain and bite problems, and help maintain the patient's facial tissue and aesthetic appearance.

1. Fixture

The implant itself (also referred to as the fixture) is typically made with titanium and surgically placed beneath the gums.

The permanent implant, which is shaped like a screw, will be placed in the jawbone after the surgeon drills a small hole to replace the missing tooth's roots. As the tissue heals, the fixture bonds to the jawbone in a process known as osseointegration, allowing the implant to remain permanently in your mouth.

Titanium is commonly used because it is well-accepted by the human body. Using the right materials increases the likelihood that osseointegration and other parts of the process will go smoothly, as well as lowering the risk of corrosion and other complications.

2. Abutment

Because the implant is entirely beneath the gum line, an extender is attached to the false tooth. The abutment is a short screw that extends at or directly over the gum line to support the tooth replacement.

The abutment, which can be made of tooth-coloured material or metal, is usually attached after osseointegration has occurred. However, a dentist may place a fixture, abutment, and temporary restoration all at the same time.

3. Tooth Replacement

You will return to your dentist's office three to six months after your surgery to have the tooth replacement - a crown, bridge, or denture - attached. The replacement (or prosthesis) will resemble your natural teeth in appearance and function and can be made of porcelain, ceramic, or other materials.

Your tooth replacement, as well as the dental implant as a whole, will function like natural teeth and roots, allowing you to chew and speak normally - without the need to remove or replace false teeth.

Replace Missing Teeth to Preserve Your Oral Health

It's critical to have missing teeth replaced as soon as possible to prevent deterioration in the jaw and gum tissues, regardless of the tooth replacement option you and your dentist determine is best for you. Your oral and general health may be further compromised if deterioration takes place, and the teeth next to the gap may shift out of place, which could result in bite problems and uneven teeth.

We at Canmore Dental Centre are here to assist with diagnosis and treatment planning for any oral health issues you may be experiencing. Plan a dental examination and cleaning right away if you have missing teeth or other oral health problems.

Do you need to replace missing teeth? Contact our Canmore dentists to book an assessment appointment.