Dental implants offer the most lifelike and durable option to replace a missing tooth, or to even secure a set of fixed dentures. But how do they look and function so much like natural teeth? In today’s blog, your Santa Rosa , CA, oral surgeons talk about the different parts of a dental implant.
Treating Tooth Loss
Remember, when you lose a tooth this doesn’t just mean an embarrassing gap in your smile. Over time, even minor tooth loss could mean the onset of dental misalignment, TMJ disorder, bruxism, and an increased risk of decay or periodontal disease. For others, this could complicate how they eat and speak, and as the body suspends the flow of key nutrients to the jawbone around missing teeth, this causes a breakdown that leads to further tooth loss or even an older appearance. Treating both loss, particularly with dental implants, could help prevent complications, and also preserve your youthful appearance. Your new teeth could also last much longer than traditional prosthetics, up to several decades in some cases.
The Parts of an Implant
Each of your dental implants will be composed of three major parts. The implant portion is a biocompatible post made from titanium, which we insert directly into the jaw to act as a new root. The body accepts it as such, and this stimulates the growth of bone tissue to prevent an older appearance or further tooth loss. This also helps ensure they can last much longer than traditional dentures or bridges. After we insert this part and the jawbone heals, we will attach an abutment, which extends above the gum line. Affixed to the abutment will be the crown, the visible part of your new tooth. This will be custom-made to ensure a lifelike appearance and durable chewing surface as well. We want you to be able to smile with confidence again, and enjoy your favorite foods.
Fixed Dentures
We can also address more severe cases of tooth loss, inserting multiple dental implants and then attaching a full or partial denture to them, or possibly a bridge too. These will last much longer than traditional prosthetics, and will also never require removal for cleaning. This means they will never slip as well. We also have options like All-On-4, which supports a full set of dentures on just four implant posts and could be placed and restored in the same visit, so you leave with a complete smile after only one sitting.
Do You Have Any Questions About Implant Dentistry?
Our team offers a secure, long-lasting, and lifelike option to address one or several missing teeth. To learn more about replacing your missing teeth, schedule a consultation by calling Santa Rosa Oral Surgery in Santa Rosa, CA, today at 707-545-4625.
