If you suffer from tooth loss, you probably know that dental implants can help you regain an attractive and functional smile again. Dental implants are replacement teeth that are designed to mimic natural teeth. However, unlike natural teeth, dental implants are not one solid piece—rather they are made of three different pieces that are attached to one another vertically. Our Toluca Lake dental implant dentist has put together this explanation of how a dental implant works…
It all starts with a stable foundation
Your natural teeth are pretty firmly embedded in your mouth. Your tooth’s root extends down into the jawbone, and allows you go about your daily routine—eating, drinking, speaking—without worrying that your teeth are going to shift around. Well, the foundation of the dental implant works in the same way. This titanium piece is inserted into the jawbone to keep your entire restoration secure. The titanium root also helps your natural jawbone to stay healthy and supported.
Natural looking results
After our dentist places your implant root, the abutment and the restoration are put in place to make your dental implant look like a natural tooth. The abutment is a small piece that connects the root and the natural-looking restoration. The abutment is critical for the functionality of your tooth as well; it allows enough “give” between the two pieces so that you can chew without snapping your implant.
The restoration is the final piece of the puzzle, and it is the only piece that you will see everyday. The restoration sits on your gum tissue just like a natural tooth—in fact, once it is in place, you will be amazed at how seamlessly it blends with your natural smile!
Each of these parts of a dental implant plays an important role. Our Toluca Lake dental implant dentists are here to answer any questions you may have, and to walk you through the process, so give us a call to get started today!