Dental Implants – Three Components

Our Bedford dentist discusses the main parts of a dental implant.

We often talk about ‘dental implant placement’ as though this is a single step procedure.

However, this is not the case, and a tooth replaced in this manner consists of various phases with the implant itself having three separate parts. Each of these has a role to play, which we will look at in today’s blog.

We are always pleased to cover any aspect of dental care in this blog, and, if you have a topic that you would like us to discuss, please let us know and we’ll certainly try to include it.

The Implant

This stage is critical, indeed the very ‘root’ of this popular tooth replacement procedure and provides the foundation for long-lasting and robust tooth replacement.

The dental implant itself is a screw like object made from titanium and the use of this particular metal is a crucial part of its success. Originally discovered by chance, it has been shown that titanium is the only material that will fuse consistently with the bone. Once the implant has been placed into the bone in the jaw, it is allowed to bond securely for around three months, a process called osseointegration. It is this foundation which gives the implant its strength and security that so many of our Bedford patients have been delighted with.

The abutment

The abutment is the component that connects the dental implant to the final crown. Whilst many are made from titanium, this is not critical, as it is with the implant itself, and some are also made from zirconia, gold or other materials. The abutment is fitted to the implant following the completion of the osseointegration process, where the bone and implant fuse.

Porcelain crowns

Whilst the titanium implant acts to replace a natural tooth root, providing a solid foundation, the visible part of the tooth is replaced using a natural looking dental crown. Indeed the crown will be made to a specification that blends in well with the shape and colour of your remaining teeth. This means that your new replacement tooth is not only strong but looks entirely natural too.

The crown is attached securely to the implant via the abutment and completes the treatment. You should then treat all parts of your new replacement tooth as you would a natural one, with regular cleaning being essential to help you to maintain a healthy replacement tooth for years to come. We will also invite you back for periodic checks to make sure all is progressing as expected.

If you would like to find out more about having a missing tooth replaced with a dental implant, why not contact us for an initial consultation? You can call The Dental Centre Bedford on 01234 819868.