Parts of a Dental Implant

More patients than ever before are interested in teeth implants Lombard IL. They can be great restorations for people who are missing one or many teeth. Few people, though, are actually aware of the process of getting a dental implant. It can be a lengthy endeavor, and it is important that patients understand what to expect. There are three main parts of the dental implant: the implant, the abutment and the crown.

Implant

The implant is the screw that is placed inside the jawbone. The dentist uses a guide to create a space large enough to hold the implant. The implant, made of a strong titanium material, is then placed inside the bone and covered with gum tissue. The site is left undisturbed for several months so that the implant can fuse with the bone.

Abutment 

Once the implant has correctly fused with the bone, the top of the implant is uncovered. A metal piece known as an abutment is screwed onto the top of the implant. The abutment can be seen above the gums. It is what allows the dentist to attach a tooth to the dental implant.

Crown

Once the dental implant site has completely healed, it is ready for a crown to be attached to it. The crown can be made of metal or porcelain, and it is made to match the patient’s other teeth in size and color. Once the crown is placed, the patient can chew with it just like any other tooth.

Dental implants are wonderful restorations for those who are wishing to replace one or many teeth. To find out more information, speak with your dentist about whether you are a candidate for this type of procedure. Always ask what your best options are, and learn as much about each procedure as possible. In this way, you can make informed decisions about your care.