The best teeth are your own natural ones. However, if you’ve lost one or more of those teeth to gum disease, tooth decay, or injury, dental implants are the next best thing. Dental implants have three distinct parts that serve three distinct functions:
- The implant: This screw-like device is inserted into the jaw beneath the missing tooth. The implant fuses with the bone tissue surrounding it and takes the place of a natural tooth root. It anchors the total dental implant structure.
- The abutment: This intermediary portion firmly connects the implant beneath the gum line to the restoration above the gums.
- The restoration: This component replaces the visible portion of the tooth. Commonly used restorations include dental crowns, bridges, and even partial or full dentures.
Together, these three components provide a tooth replacement solution that closely mimics the crown-and-root design of a natural tooth. Dental implants are strong, sturdy, and long lasting and can be cared for just like your natural teeth.
Once the dental implant procedure is complete, not only will you be able to chew food, but also vocalize words better since the flow of air out of your mouth when speaking is often affected by broken, chipped or missing teeth. Therefore, you can rest assured that you will regain both confidence in your smile and in your ability to communicate with others.