Implant dentistry offers highly comprehensive dental restoration in the wake of tooth loss. Whether you lost one, several, or an entire arch of teeth, an implant can improve the appearance, function, and health of your smile. The durable and secure-fitting fixture can provide more benefits than removable tooth replacement solutions, but not all patients will be eligible for this treatment.
Dentists consider dental implants to be a permanent treatment, which some patients may feel nervous about. You can feel more at ease about introducing implants to your smile when you know more about these fixed devices. Discover the three components of a dental implant fixture when you read on.
Titanium Post Anchor
The foundation of the dental implant comes from the titanium post anchor of the device. Your dentist begins this tooth replacement treatment by surgically inserting this anchor into the jaw. You can receive as many anchors as the type of implant demands within one procedure.
As you heal from the procedure over the course of several months, the anchor fuses with the bone in the jaw to establish secure support for the rest of the device. This anchor will replace the missing root of the tooth, not just the cusp above the gumline. Removable dentures cannot offer the preservation of the jawbone that comes with this feature.
The dentist must thoroughly evaluate a patient’s health before pursuing implant dentistry because the fixture relies on this jawbone fusion process. If you do not have enough healthy bone in the jaw, the fusion will not happen properly, endangering your oral health. Your dentist can determine your eligibility with x-ray imaging taken during a consultation appointment.
Abutment Piece
A dental implant features an abutment that serves as a connective piece between the anchor and the rest of the fixture. It screws into place atop the anchor at the gumline. It provides a stronger link between the supportive anchor and the dental prosthetics.
This way, you can look forward to an even more stable tooth replacement solution. You can worry less about the device slipping out of place at an inopportune moment. And you can see improved restoration of your oral capabilities, like chewing and speaking.
Dental Prosthetic
After you heal from your initial surgery to place the implanted anchors, you will return to your dentist to receive permanent dental prosthetics. These custom-made ceramic teeth will look both beautiful and natural in your smile. The dentist will consider the size, shape, and color of your teeth to ensure the perfect look and aesthetic.
Durable ceramic prosthetics ensure they will not break as you carry out your usual oral functions. Dental implants will remain in place for twenty years or longer with proper care and maintenance.
You can receive a crown, bridge, or denture as your dental prosthetic for your implant, depending on your unique oral health goals. The prosthetic teeth screw into place atop the abutment for long-lasting restoration. Call your dentist to learn if implant dentistry is right for you today.