Dental implants are an excellent solution for many people who’ve lost teeth. For those seeking to replace one or more missing teeth, implants are commonly recommended because they’re durable and sturdy. Dental implants are made up of several parts, and each plays an essential role in creating a new tooth that looks and feels natural.
What are the parts of a dental implant?
Dental implants are replacement tooth roots used as support for artificial teeth. They’re a more permanent solution than bridges, which use surrounding teeth to support the false one. A few pieces make up a dental implant, and they may vary depending on the patient’s requirements and the dentist’s preferences.
Implants
The implant is shaped like a screw and is inserted into the jawbone at the location of your missing tooth. This piece can be made of several different materials, including titanium and zirconia oxide.
Abutments
The abutment is the piece of hardware that connects the implant to the replacement tooth. It’s most often made of titanium but can be made of ceramic or another metal.
Crowns
Crowns are the visible portion of the implant, and they’re made from porcelain or other materials that have been matched to the color of your natural teeth. They’re placed over abutments to give your smile a natural appearance.
Titanium Dental Implants
While several different types of dental implants are available, titanium implants are the most frequently used.
Titanium is a non-corrosive and biocompatible metal that has been used in medical implants for over 40 years. Since they’re fully biocompatible with the human body, titanium implants won’t corrode in the mouth.
Once inserted into the jaw, the will grow around the threads of the implant, this process is called osseointegration. This creates a permanent bond between the implant and the bone surrounding it, providing a stable foundation for your replacement teeth. The result is a comfortable fit that feels natural and can be permanent with proper care.
Zirconium Dental Implants
Zirconium implants are an alternative to traditional titanium implants. Zirconium implants are made from a metal alloy (zirconium oxide) that uses no nickel or chromium, metals that have caused allergic reactions in some patients.
Instead of using a metal rod, zirconium implants have a screw and support post made from zirconium oxide. This material provides for bone stability and longevity of the implant.
Zirconium oxide has similar properties to titanium, but it’s more translucent, mimicking natural tooth color better when used as a restoration material. Zirconium implants may be an option for patients with sensitivities to certain metals.
Dental Implants in New Jersey
The dental implant has been the gold standard for tooth replacement for the past 30 years, due mainly to its high success rate. At Perio Implant Specialists of NJ, we only place the highest quality Straumann and Biomet 3i implants. We understand how important it is to your oral health and self-confidence to find the best tooth replacement option for you. Whether you’d like to learn more about dental implants or schedule an appointment to determine if you’re a good candidate, contact us at 973-729-9392 or make an appointment online.