Your implant dentist may refer to a part of your dental implant restoration as an “abutment.” For many, this is a new term, and understanding what the implant dentist means can be helpful to feel more comfortable about what you can expect with the treatment process and your restoration.
Reviewing the role of an abutment in implant dentistry
A dental abutment is a connecting piece and an integral part of the dental implants process. This review discusses the role of an abutment in implant dentistry, in addition to a closer look at the other parts that make up a dental implant restoration, how you can care for the restoration, and more.
The different components of implant dentistry
There are three primary components to a dental implant restoration. These three components are the implant, the abutment, and the replacement tooth (or replacement teeth). Each part of the restoration serves a unique purpose. The implant, which is a titanium post that is surgically fixed into the jaw, is placed first. Once the mouth heals, then the abutment(s) and the restoration (either a crown, bridge, or denture) are placed.
A detailed look at the dental abutment with dental implant restorations
A dental abutment is an often overlooked component of the dental implant restoration process. The abutment serves as a connector piece for the dental implant and the restoration. The abutment, much like the implant, is typically composed of a silver metal material. Also like the implant, the abutment is not visible while the patient smiles.
How long the implant dentistry process takes
The implant dentist process timeline varies for every patient. This is because some patients require some procedures that others do not, such as a bone graft procedure. Implant dentistry patients should expect the treatment process to take anywhere from four months to more than eight, and it is important to have realistic expectations and remain patient.
Why should I choose implant dentistry?
Implant dentistry is a great way to restore your smile after losing one or more teeth. It offers a range of benefits that alternative solutions such as removable dentures or fixed bridges do not, such as the ability to preserve the dentistry in the jawbone or last for more than twenty years.
Caring for your abutment and dental implant restoration
You can care for your dental implant restoration the same as you do your natural teeth. This most notably includes keeping the restoration (as well as the rest of the mouth) as clean as possible through good and consistent oral hygiene practices.
Find out more about implant dentistry from our dental team
The implant dentistry process can seem intimidating at first for many patients, but you can help ensure you have minimal anxiety and nerves about the process by choosing an implant dentist that can guide you through every step. Here at our dental practice, we can do exactly that. Contact us today to schedule a visit at a time that is convenient for you.
Request an appointment or call Ohio Cosmetic Dentists at 614-503-5240 for an appointment in our Columbus office.
Recent Posts
If you are considering implant dentistry or are about to go through the process and want to learn more about it, it is helpful to first understand the basics. Here, we will discuss the various parts that make up an implant dentistry restoration and highlight how they all work together to complete the restoration.An implant…
Implant dentistry makes everyday activities easier. After tooth loss occurs, certain activities can become more of a challenge, and it can affect the person’s appearance and level of confidence. The good news is that many restore their confidence level and improve their ability to eat, speak, and care for their smile each day with implant…
Dental bridges can be supported by adjacent natural teeth (traditional fixed bridges) or by dental implants (implant dentistry bridges) on each side of the restoration. It is helpful to understand the differences with each option before making a final decision as to which of the two popular teeth replacement solutions is right for you. Implant…