Dental Implants

Dental implants are the newest technology for replacing missing or broken teeth. They can offer a permanent solution for replacing anywhere from one tooth to your entire dental arch. What’s more, they not only restore the appearance of your teeth but give you back full functionality too.

Our professional staff will evaluate your case and help you determine if dental implants are the right choice for you. We’ll answer all your questions so you fully understand how dental implants work.

How are Dental Implants Different from Dentures?

Dental implants differ from dentures in that they are not removable. Instead, they are permanent tooth replacements that consist of three parts: the fixture, the abutment, and the dental prosthetic.

What Is the Fixture?

The fixture is also called the implant post. This is the part of the implant that is screwed into your jawbone, and it will act as an artificial tooth root. It even tapers like a natural tooth root. It is made of titanium to ensure biocompatibility. Sometimes, the fixture is coated with a non-living component of bone called hydroxyapatite which helps the post fuse to your jawbone.

The fixture comes in different sizes, depending on the tooth or teeth they are replacing. There are also other fixture options for patients who lack adequate jawbone density for regular implants.

What Is the Abutment?

The abutment is a connector that connects the fixture to the dental prosthetic. These also differ in size depending on the size of prosthetic that is required. Abutments can also be placed at different angles to mimic your natural tooth’s appearance.

What Is the Dental Prosthetic?

This is the visible portion of the implant, and it might be a crown, bridge, or denture. Typically, dental crowns are used for replacing a single tooth or multiple teeth that are not next to each other. Bridges are used when more than one tooth is missing in a row, and dentures can be used for an entire arch of missing teeth.

The type of prosthetic you need will determine the number of implant posts required to support it. Crowns usually need one post while bridges will need two or more posts and dentures will require between four and six posts.

What Is the Procedure for Getting Dental Implants?

After an initial evaluation and consultation, Dr. Johnson will perform the surgical procedure implanting the post. After this, your dentist will allow your jawbone to heal and fuse to the biocompatible post. Once this period of healing has passed, your dentist will place the abutment and prosthetic onto the fixture. Your implants are custom-made to restore your natural smile.

Once the procedure is finished, you will care for your dental implants the same way you care for your natural teeth. It’s a great option for restoring your smile to optimal health, function, and appearance. With proper care, your Greenwood dental implants can last a lifetime.

If you’ve got missing or damaged teeth and are ready to get your smile back, contact Stacy D. Johnson Comfortable Dentistry to meet with Dr. Johnson today. We’ll have you smiling in no time!