Dental implants are a popular and effective way to replace missing teeth. Let’s take a look at how dental implants work and why they are so beneficial for your patients.
Firstly, what are the components of a dental implant? The three dental implant parts are the implant fixture, the abutment, and the implant crown. The implant fixtures and abutments are most often made from metal, while crowns come in a range of materials.
Dental implant fixture
The implant fixture is a screw-shaped metal rod that is inserted into the jaw bone to serve as a replacement for the tooth root. It is typically made of titanium, a biocompatible material that fuses well with bone. In some instances zirconia is used, particularly for patients who may have an allergy to titanium.
Dental implant abutment
The abutment is a small connector piece that is attached to the implant fixture. It provides a foundation for the implant crown to be placed on. Abutments can be made of a variety of materials, most commonly titanium and zirconia.
There are a few different types of abutment—screw retained, cement retained and screwmentable—with each having its own benefits.
- Screw retained abutments are delivered as a single unit from the lab with the crown (which includes an access hole) cemented to the abutment.
- Cement retained abutments are delivered from the lab in two separate units and without an access hole in the crown.
- Screwmentable abutments arrive in two units with the crown not cemented to the abutment, but with an access hole in the crown. The doctor will need to seat the abutments first, then cement the crown over the abutments in the mouth. The doctor can then unscrew the and remove the crown to clean and remove excess cement before final torque into place.
Dental implant crowns
The implant crown is the visible part of the dental implant. Crowns are used to replace single teeth, with other dental implant components used if more extensive work is needed. A bridge is used to replace multiple teeth, and dentures are used to replace all of the teeth in the arch. Implant crowns can be made of a variety of materials including zirconia, metal, porcelain fused to metal (PFM), and ceramics like lithium disilicate (eMax).
The crown is the most expensive part of the dental implant.
How the dental implant parts work together
The implant post, abutment, and implant crown work together to create a strong and durable replacement for a missing tooth. The implant post provides a stable foundation for the restoration, while the abutment connects the implant post to the implant crown. The implant crown is the visible part of the dental implant and it is what gives you a natural-looking smile.
How implants are retained in the mouth
Dental implant parts are retained in the mouth in two ways:
Osseointegration: Osseointegration is the process by which the implant post fuses with the jaw bone. The bone cells grow around and adhere to the implant post, creating a durable bond. The process of osseointegration occurs over the span of several months. This is the primary way that dental implants are retained in the mouth.
Abutment screw: The abutment screw is a small screw that attaches the abutment to the implant post. This provides additional retention and stability for the dental implant.
Benefits of dental implants
Dental implants offer a number of benefits over other tooth replacement options, including:
- Improved function: Dental implants allow your patients to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
- Enhanced aesthetics: Dental implants look and feel like natural teeth.
- Durability: Dental implants can last a lifetime with proper care.
- Improved oral health: Dental implants help to preserve your patient’s jaw bone and prevent gum disease.
Parts of dental implants
Implant parts stay consistent across retention styles and through the digital process. If you’re looking to learn more about the tooth extraction and implant timeline, read more of our glossary definitions relating to the dental implant process.
