If you have lost a tooth, there is perhaps no better method of replacing it than with a dental implant. These dental miracles are capable of replacing a tooth with a prosthetic that is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. But the benefits of dental implants run deeper than that. Below the surface of the gum line, part of the dental implant is rooted into the jaw, helping to prevent against such tooth-loss complications as the domino effect, jawbone density loss, and facial collapse. To truly appreciate all that dental implants do in replacing a tooth, it is necessary to take a look at the three parts that make up the whole. Your Milford dentist, Dr. Mitchell I. Quintner, takes you for a closer look at the parts of a dental implant.
The Three Parts of a Dental Implant
A dental implant’s three parts are the crown, the abutment, and the post. The crown is typically made of porcelain, and it is the part of the implant that is visible above the gum line. The crown is custom made to mimic the appearance of a patient’s surrounding teeth to ensure that it blends in effectively. However, the crown does more than improve the cosmetic appearance of the mouth. It also functions as a natural tooth, allowing patients to eat a variety of foods, including apples, nuts, and steaks.
The abutment serves as a bridge between the crown and the post. The abutment is sturdy and keeps the crown locked into place. The post is made of titanium and has two major functions. First, it serves as the anchor for the entire implant. The post is placed in the gums and jawbone, where it fuses with the jaw. Once the fusion is complete, it provides a firm base for the rest of the implant. The second function of the post is to ward away the complications that often stem from tooth loss. Its presence in the jaw restores a vital flow of nutrients that ceased upon loss of the tooth. Without these vital nutrients the surrounding teeth and jaw often suffer.
Visit Your Milford Dentist
If you have lost a tooth, dental implants can help restore your mouth. Schedule an appointment with your Milford dentist, Dr. Quintner, today by calling 203-878-6699. We proudly serve the 06460 area and welcome patients from Milford, Orange, Woodmont, West Haven, and all neighboring communities.