What Are The Different Parts Of An Implant?

What Is A Dental Implant?

Dental implants are incredible examples of how modern dentistry allows people to achieve the smile of their dreams. 

Implants essentially mimic the structure of a natural tooth, used to replace missing teeth in the mouth. The implant is placed directly into the bone of the jaw, and a prosthetic cap is placed overtop in order to fill the gap in the smile line.

To the naked eye, the implant tooth is nearly completely indistinguishable from the natural teeth in the mouth. The implant tooth also functions like a natural tooth; you can brush, floss, and eat just as you would with your own tooth. 

The implant requires no special care, and once you have completed your implant placement procedure and have attended your follow-up appointments to confirm that you are healing properly, you will not have to attend any further appointments in-office for your implant. Maintaining an implant just requires staying on your dental cleaning regimen. 

Implant Parts

Implants are made up of different components that play an important role in the overall look and function.

Below are the different parts of an implant:

• Fixture: The fixture refers to the implant itself; it is a small titanium device that resembles a screw. This is the part of the implant that is placed directly into the bone. This part of the implant essentially replaces the natural roots of the tooth.

• Abutment: The abutment is the part of the implant that is attached to the fixture in order to allow a prosthetic to be placed over top; it functions as the connector between the part of the implant that is above the gumline and the part that is below the gumline.

• Prosthesis: The prosthesis part of the implant is the part that fills the smile line and mimics the appearance of a natural tooth. The prosthesis is a cap, known clinically as a crown, and will be screwed into place over your implant.

Altogether, the different parts of your dental implant make up a durable and strong device that almost perfectly replicates both the look and feel of a natural tooth. Implants provide the closest imitation of natural tooth structure, and are widely favored by both dentists and patients due to their durability, longevity, and comfort. 

Dental Implants in San Jose

Here at EZ Dental, we are proud to offer comprehensive implant placement services in San Jose. 

An investment in a dental implant is an investment in a healthy, strong, and happy smile. While other tooth replacement options may leave you feeling a bit uncomfortable and may not last as long as you would like, dental implants are long-lasting, aesthetically pleasing, and feel just like your natural tooth.

For more information about dental implants or to get scheduled for a consultation in our San Jose dental office, give us a call anytime at (408) 227-6000.