Dental implants are the best dental restoration to improve not only your appearance but the health of your jaw and mouth. Dental implants are made of biocompatible posts or screws that are surgically implanted in the jaw bone. They are then affixed with a small device called an abutment and topped with a dental crown (artificial tooth). Read on to learn more about what dental implants are made of, and why they are considered the gold standard for replacing missing teeth.
Biocompatible Post/Screw
The post or screw that is implanted in the jawbone is made of a biocompatible material, such as titanium or zirconia. This implanted screw replaces the natural tooth root, which is responsible for anchoring the tooth to the jaw.
In a way, the implanted posts or screws “trick” the jawbone and soft tissues into treating the implant like a natural tooth root. This process, called osseointegration, occurs after your dental implant surgery and lasts for many months as the bone and tissues fuse the implant to the jaw. This results in a stable, securely anchored implant which will then support the artificial tooth.
Abutment
An abutment is a tiny device that attaches to the top of the implanted post or screw. Its purpose is to connect the artificial tooth to the implanted screw. Abutments are typically made of titanium, but zirconia, stainless steel, or gold may also be used.
Dental Crown
Dental crowns are the visible part of your dental implants, which look and function like natural teeth. They differ in a few ways from other types of dental crowns that are used to restore damaged natural teeth. Dental crowns placed on existing teeth are there to cover and protect weakened natural teeth. By contrast, crowns used in dental implants replace missing teeth.
Dental crowns that cover existing teeth are cemented (bonded) to the natural tooth. Crowns used in dental implants are screwed onto the implants via an abutment.
The material used to make dental crowns for implants is often also different from crowns that protect natural teeth. Implant crowns are often made of porcelain-fused-to-metal, layered zirconia, or lithium disilicate. Crowns to protect teeth may also be made of porcelain-fused-to-metal, but may also be made of ceramic, gold alloy, or other metal alloys.
Are Dental Implants Right for You?
If you have one or more missing teeth, it is worthwhile to consider replacing them with a dental implant. Dental implants offer benefits that other dental restorations just can’t match including:
- Preservation of jawbone
- Preservation of facial structure and appearance
- Lasting durability (20+ years, but may last your entire life)
- Restored bite force
- Improved self-confidence
- Look and function like natural teeth
- Prevent further tooth loss due to deteriorating jawbone
- Cavity resistant
- Easy to care for/maintain
Schedule a Consultation for Dental Implants in Brooklyn or Pomona, NY
At A & R Advanced Dental Group, we specialize in restorative dentistry, including dental implants. If you’re tired of living with one or more missing teeth, schedule a consultation today, to learn more about your restorative options. Our office is open until 8 pm Monday-Thursday to best serve our busy clients. Contact us today to book your appointment.