In our last blog we discussed the advantages of implant treatment rather than leaving the space empty when you lose a tooth. Reasons such as difficulty eating and speaking and the shifting of your teeth which can lead to crooked teeth or a misaligned bite were stated as reasons to get an implant. But what exactly is an implant? In today’s installment of Is A Dental Implant Right For You? we explain exactly what a dental implant is.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant consists of a titanium post that acts as the root of the missing tooth, an abutment piece that is attached to the top of the titanium post, and a fabricated tooth crown (the part of the tooth that you see) that is bonded to the abutment. The placement of the implant involves a complex surgical procedure.
Implant Surgery
To place the implant the dental surgeon must cut into your gum tissue, where the missing tooth is located, to expose your jawbone. A hole is drilled into the bone and a titanium post (which resembles a metal screw) is inserted. Titanium is used due to its biocompatibility and the fact that it fuses (osseointegrates) with the bone itself, in essence becoming one. This post acts as the root of the tooth. It can take up to three months for the osseointegration process to be complete and before the fabricated crown can be placed.
Crown Placement
On the top of the titanium post is an abutment upon which the crown is placed and bonded. The crown, usually made from porcelain, will be fabricated to blend with your natural dentition in shape, size, and color. Once the crown is bonded to the abutment post the implant procedure is complete.
ABOUT YOUR VISTA, CA DENTIST:
Dr. Alexander A. Sabet strives for clinical excellence in a comforting environment. We offer the latest in preventive, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry. Dr. Sabet’s various services include teeth whitening, TMJ treatment, and teeth bonding in Vista, CA. To learn more about his services or to schedule a consultation, call (760) 724-9117. Dr. Sabet proudly treats patients from Vista and the surrounding areas of Carlsbad, Ocean side, San Marcos, and Escondido.
