Reviewed By Dr. Robert Barron, DMD
Reading Time: 3 minutes
A dental implant is not one solid piece. It is a system of precision parts that work together to replace a missing tooth from the root up. Each component has a purpose: to anchor securely, to connect seamlessly, and to restore the natural look and strength of your bite.
Table of Contents
The Implant Post
The implant post or screw is the foundation of the dental implant. This small titanium post is surgically placed into the jawbone, where it acts as the root of the missing tooth.
Titanium is the most common choice because it integrates seamlessly with bone tissue through a natural process called osseointegration. This fusion provides stability that cannot be achieved with traditional dentures or bridges.
Key facts about the implant fixture:
- Shape and design: Threaded like a screw for secure anchorage in bone.
- Material: Medical-grade titanium for durability and biocompatibility.
- Function: Serves as the root, supporting the upper components of the implant.
Once placed, the implant typically needs 8 to 10 weeks to heal and bond with the bone. During this time, bone cells attach directly to the surface of the implant, forming a strong, lasting connection.
The Abutment
The abutment connects the implant to the visible crown. After the implant is placed, a healing abutment is placed on top. This allows gum tissue to heal around it, reducing the need for additional procedures later.
Key facts about the abutment:
- Material: Usually titanium, zirconia, or gold alloy.
- Function: Serves as a connector between the implant and crown.
- Placement: Can be installed during initial surgery or after the implant heals.
Abutments are customized to fit the angle, depth, and position of the implant, ensuring that the final crown looks completely natural in your smile.
The Dental Crown
The crown is the visible part of the implant that looks like a natural tooth. This is the final restoration, created by your restorative dentist once Dr. Barron confirms that the implant has fully integrated.
Modern crowns are made from porcelain or zirconia and are designed to match the color, size, and shape of your surrounding teeth.
Key facts about the crown:
- Material: Porcelain or zirconia.
- Function: Replaces the visible part of the missing tooth.
- Attachment: Cemented or screwed onto the abutment.
Once the crown is attached, the dental implant functions exactly like a natural tooth allowing you to chew, speak, and smile with complete confidence.
Schedule Your Dental Implant Consultation
Each part of a dental implant works together to restore strength, comfort, and confidence. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Robert Barron at Concord Oral Surgery in Vaughan to see if dental implants are right for you.
To book a dental implant consultation at our oral surgery office in Vaughan, ON, call (905) 669-2616 or visit us at 3300 Highway 7 West, Suite 805 Vaughan, ON.
FAQs
How long does each stage of the dental implant process take?
Most dental implant treatments take about three to six months from start to finish. The exact timeline depends on how quickly your jawbone heals and integrates with the implant before the final crown is attached.
Can dental implants fail?
Failures are rare when placed by an experienced oral surgeon, but factors like smoking, uncontrolled diabetes, or poor oral hygiene can interfere with bone healing.
Where can I find a dental implant specialist near me?
You can schedule a consultation with Dr. Robert Barron at Concord Oral Surgery, conveniently located in Vaughan, Ontario.
