Dental implants have changed the field of dentistry, providing a reliable and durable solution for patients with missing teeth. East Hills Dental Associates offers dental implants in Roslyn Heights, NY as the number one teeth replacement option. If you have one or more missing teeth, you are probably contemplating all of your tooth replacement options. Continue reading to learn more about the basics of implant fixtures and the different types of dental restorations.
What are Dental Implants?
A dental implant restoration is a restorative dentistry treatment that Dr. Richard Sousa uses to replace missing teeth. This missing tooth solution is different from your other options because it replaces the teeth at the root. Several parts make up a dental implant restoration.
Teeth implants offer a durable and long-lasting solution and, mimic the look and feel of natural teeth. They contribute to improved oral health and overall well-being of patients who replace their missing teeth with them.
Parts of a Dental Implant
A dental implant restoration can replace one, several, or an entire row of missing teeth. Each part serves an important purpose and will function together to create a life-like tooth.
The Implant Fixture
The implant fixture is the foundation of the dental implant system. Your dentist will surgically embed this titanium post in to the jawbone.
It serves as a sturdy anchor for the dental prosthesis. It also replaces the teeth root system supplying the jaw bone with enough stimulation to regenerate. This will prevent bone loss in the jaw.
Implant fixtures come in various sizes to accommodate different jaw structures and clinical situations. They are placed in the jawbone based on your bone density, available space, and overall oral health. After your examination, Dr. Sousa will determine the implant sizes you need. He will map out the exact location where each one will go along your jaw.
The Abutment
An abutment is the connector piece that joins the implant fixtures to the dental prosthesis. It plays a crucial role in providing stability and support for the final dental restoration.
Different types of abutments exist, including stock abutments, custom abutments, and temporary abutments. Each type serves specific purposes, catering to the unique needs of patients. A stock abutment is essentially a standard one-size-fits-all abutment.
If your situation allows, using a pre-fabricated connector is a great way to save money. We can also create a custom abutment specif to your oral anatomy. This higher degree of customization allows for a more precise fit.
Dental Restorations
The dental restoration is the last part Dr. Sousa will attach and refers to the replacement teeth. He will secure it to the implant fixtures through abutments. Several types of types of restorations are available to suit different cases.
- Dental Crown: a dental crown will replace a single tooth. Your dentist will insert one dental implant into the jaw bone and then secure a dental crown to it.
- Dental Bridge: a dental bridge will replace several consecutive missing teeth. Your dentist will insert two or more dental implants on both sides of the gap to hold the bridge firmly in place.
- Denture: a denture will replace an entire row of missing teeth. It requires Dr. Sousa to place two to eight dental implants in a strategic locations along the jaw. How many implants you will need depends on your bone density and other factors.
Choosing how to replace your missing teeth can be a difficult decision. To learn more about dental implants, book a consultation with Dr. Richard Sousa at his Roslyn Heights, NY dentist office. Here we can discuss what dental implants are, the various parts that make up an implant restoration, and how they work. Contact us today to book your consultation or request an appointment online.