If you lose one or more teeth, you might face further oral health problems. But your dentist can help you restore oral function, aesthetics, and health with personalized tooth replacement treatment. You can find the maximum benefits when you pursue implant dentistry to replace missing teeth.
These fixed devices can replace one, several, or an entire arch of missing teeth based on your specific needs. You can feel more confident with this treatment when you know more about this durable appliance. Read on to learn details about the three primary parts that make up a dental implant.
Titanium Post Anchor
Once you and your dentist decide that implant dentistry is the best tooth replacement option for you, the dentist begins the treatment with oral surgery. They insert one or more titanium post anchors into the jaw. They can place all anchors needed for your specific type of implant within one procedure.
The anchor serves as the foundation that sustains the rest of the implant. As you heal from the procedure, the anchor fuses with the jawbone to create permanent support. It can take several months for this process to finish completely.
The anchor will also replace the absent tooth root following tooth loss. This preserves the jawbone, which can otherwise deteriorate without stimulation from this root. Removable tooth replacements cannot offer this benefit.
Follow your dentist’s aftercare guidelines to ensure a proper recovery and successful implantation. If you notice severe pain or looseness in the device, call your dentist. These could be signs that the implant is failing and will require urgent removal.
Abutment
The abutment refers to a small piece of metal that sits atop the anchor at the gumline. It serves as a connective tool that will allow the dental prosthetic to attach easily to the anchor which sits below the gumline.
With this device, you can feel confident in eating, speaking, and performing other oral functions, knowing that the appliance will not fall out of place at an inopportune moment. You will not be able to remove your dental implant. Only a dentist can take out the implant from the abutment once in place.
Dental Prosthetic
The dental prosthetic refers to a custom-made crown, bridge, or denture that replaces your missing teeth. These caps attach to the abutment to restore the appearance and function of your smile.
The personalized approach to each of these fixtures ensures a natural and gorgeous finish to your smile. The dentist considers the patient’s size, shape, and color of surrounding teeth to provide the best aesthetics.
These prosthetic teeth will resist staining so that you can see a beautiful smile for fifteen or more years. Your dentist will let you know how to maximize the benefits of these devices. But you do not have to perform extra maintenance or cleaning for your implants to function well. Contact your dentist if you have any questions about the fit or function of your implants.