When a patient loses a tooth, they can lose self-esteem and jeopardize their dental health. Tooth lose is more than just an aesthetic concern—without a complete set of teeth you could be at increased risk of further tooth loss and jawbone deterioration.
Advances in dental technologies, specifically dental implants, have made it possible for patients to avoid many of the detrimental complications of tooth loss. Dental implants are a durable and permanent solution for missing teeth. They are hugely beneficial for many patients because they are so strong and they mimic natural teeth. Dental implants are comprised of three separate pieces that work together to form a secure replacement tooth–each component is constructed to be resilient. Let’s review each piece of the dental implant and how it functions.
The Root
The root of the dental implant anchors the replacement tooth in the jawbone. The root is made of titanium or titanium alloy, and it is inserted directly in to the jawbone—sitting where the root of the natural tooth used to be. The root is surgically implanted into the jawbone, and then allowed to heal. During the healing period, the titanium actually fuses with the patient’s natural bone—this bond gives the dental implant immense stability.
The Abutment
After the dental implant root has had time to fuse with the jawbone and heal, our Elmhurst dental implant dentists attach an abutment, essentially a connector piece, to the end of the dental implant root. The abutment anchors the dental restoration—the crown—to the dental implant. Generally an abutment is made of gold, titanium, or porcelain, which allow the restoration to move as a natural tooth would move.
The Crown
In the final phase of the dental implant procedure, the dentist attaches the dental restoration to the abutment. The restoration is the part of the dental implant that resembles a natural tooth, extending out of the gum. Dental implants can be used to anchor dentures, crowns, bridges, and other restorations. These are generally made of porcelain or metal covered in porcelain. Because the restoration fits securely, patients can speak and eat more comfortably than they could with alternative treatments like dentures.
When a patient loses a tooth there is a resulting hole in the jawbone where the tooth used to be. This hole can compromise jaw strength and bone density. Because they are not anchored to adjacent teeth, dental implants are a unique solution that can maintain dental integrity and keep your natural teeth healthy.
The unique properties of titanium allow dental implants to fuse to the jawbone and provide maximum stability. Many patients of all ages have benefited from strength and security of dental implants. As always, our dental team is here to help you explore your own dental options. If you have any questions please feel free to give our Elmhurst dental implant dentists a call—(630) 733-1624 begin_of_the_skype_highlighting (630) 733-1624 end_of_the_skype_highlighting.