The Three Components That Make Up a Dental Implant

When you have missing teeth in your smile, you will want a tooth replacement option from your dentist that closely mimics the look, feel, and function of your missing tooth or teeth. Dental implants are a great option that covers all three of those needs. Dr. Adnan Saleem and his team at Hebron Smiles and Smilebliss Orthodontics in Carrollton, Texas, help patients regain their confidence by placing safe and effective dental implants. A dental implant consists of three main components.

The Implant Post

The post (also called screw) is the portion of the dental implant surgically implanted into the jawbone by the dentist or oral surgeon. The purpose of the implanted post is to replace the function of the missing tooth’s root. It even looks a little bit like it! When you see the post, you may notice that its end is tapered just as a tooth’s root is. When the post is surgically implanted, a process will begin to take place called osseointegration. During this process, the jawbone fuses to the implant, providing a strong and durable anchor. The implanted post, in turn, provides the stimulation to help keep the jawbone healthy.

Implant Abutment

After the surgical site has healed, an implant abutment is attached to the post. The abutment is used for the attachment of the implant prosthesis. We can use a range of abutments that depends on the implant system used to restore your teeth. An implant abutment used for an implant crown will differ from abutments used for implanted dentures.

Implant Prosthesis

When it comes to the visible part of the implant that will provide the look and functionality of the tooth (or teeth) being replaced, an implant prosthesis will be used. Several prostheses can be used based on the needs of the patient. Crowns, bridges, and implant-supported dentures are all options made available to patients. A dental crown will likely be used when a single tooth is being replaced by an implant, while a dental bridge or implant-supported denture will be used to replace multiple teeth and will possibly require multiple implants being placed.

To schedule a consultation with Dr. Adnan Saleem to determine if you are a good candidate for dental implants, please call (972) 388-3320 today.

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