Dental implants have been used for decades as a long-term solution for those with missing teeth. At Antelope Creek Family Dentistry in Lincoln, NE, we believe the more you know about the parts that make up a dental implant, the more confident you'll feel moving forward with treatment.
Parts of a Dental Implant
Let's break down the anatomy of a dental implant into its three essential parts: the implant post, the abutment, and the restoration.
Implant Post (The Root)
The post is the foundation of the implant, which is typically made of titanium, a durable and biocompatible material that serves as a synthetic tooth root. An oral surgeon or periodontist carefully places the implant post into the jawbone under local anesthesia to ensure your comfort.
Over the next several months, the implant post fuses with the jawbone. This natural process, called osseointegration, creates a sturdy base for the entire implant structure.
Abutment (The Connector)
Once the tooth implant post integrates with the jawbone, the next step is to attach the abutment. This part of the implant serves as a connector between the post and the final restoration.
The abutment is placed during a minor surgical procedure after the post has healed. The abutment is crucial as it stabilizes the restoration your dentist will attach to it.
Tooth Restoration (Prosthetic Tooth)
The visible part of the implant is what we call the restoration. This is the part that looks and functions like a natural tooth. A crown is used for single-tooth replacement; for multiple teeth, your dentist will recommend an implant bridge or implant-retained denture.
At Antelope Creek Family Dentistry, we carefully craft the restoration to match the shape, size, and shade of your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless fit and appearance when you smile.
Are You a Dental Implant Candidate?
Now that you understand the basics, you may be ready to see if you are a good implant candidate. Call Antelope Creek Family Dentistry in Lincoln, NE, to schedule a consultation appointment with one of our dentists.