Many tooth loss patients get a whole new lease on life when they get dental implants. A dental implant is a tooth replacement solution that looks and feels just like your natural teeth.
Implants can totally transform your smile, boost your confidence, and let you enjoy a wider range of foods. They’re often touted as expensive but remember that costs vary based on your specific treatment.
The cost of full–mouth dental implants is higher than a single tooth implant or implant dentures. Dental implants have three key components: the implant, the abutment, and the crownor prosthetic teeth.
In this article we’ll learn more about the components of dental implants and the role it plays.
Implant screw
The implant screw is the base of the entire restoration. It’s a small screw or post typically made of titanium or zirconia, which is surgically placed into the jawbone.
Over time, the screw attaches to your surrounding healthy bone tissue in a process called osseointegration. This process can take several months but is crucial because it ensures the implant is secure and stable, just like a natural tooth root.
Some people may need a dental implant sinus lift or a bone graft to prepare their jawbone for implants.
A properly integrated implant screw gives you a strong and stable implant restoration. It keeps your artificial tooth stable and secure so you can eat and speak without worry.
Abutment
Once the implant screw has fully fused with the jawbone, the next step in understanding the components of dental implants is placing the abutment.
The abutment is a small connector piece that joins the implant screw to your prosthetic tooth or teeth. It plays a crucial role in providing a stable foundation for the visible restoration.
Titanium, zirconia, or other strong materials are usually used to create abutments, and they help ensure that the crown or prosthetic teeth fit securely onto the implant. The choice of material often depends on the location of the implant, aesthetic goals, and patient-specific needs. For example, zirconia abutments may be preferred in the front of the mouth for a more natural-looking result.
This connector is typically attached after the healing period, though in some cases, it may be placed at the same time as the implant screw. The timing often depends on the patient’s bone density, overall oral health, and the type of implant system used. Not all implants need abutments.
Zirconia implants can sometimes be “one-piece implants” with the abutment already fixed to the screw, which can simplify the procedure and reduce the number of surgical steps.
Dental crown or prosthetic teeth
As one of the key components of dental implants, the final and most visible part of the restoration is the dental crown (or prosthetic teeth in the case of bridges or full-arch restorations). This is the part that functions like a natural tooth and completes the overall look of the smile.
Dental crowns are custom-created to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless, natural smile. Skilled dental technicians use digital imaging and impressions to design crowns that fit precisely and blend in beautifully with surrounding teeth. They are typically crafted from zirconia, porcelain, or ceramic for durable and aesthetically pleasing results, providing both strength and a lifelike appearance.
For patients replacing multiple teeth, implant-supported bridges or full-arch prosthetics may be used instead of individual crowns. These options restore functionality and appearance, allowing patients to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. They also help maintain facial structure and prevent bone loss that often accompanies missing teeth, contributing to long-term oral health.
Components of Dental Implants in Johnstown: What to Know
Dental implants in Johnstown are a game-changer for many people struggling with tooth loss. Understanding the components of an implant can help you make an informed decision about your treatment.
A trusted and well-qualified implant specialist or dentist can give you guidance on the best implant materials and treatment plan for your unique needs as part of your dental implants procedure.
