There are many different tooth restoration treatments that can be used to replace the missing teeth of Drexel Hill, PA patients. Traditionally, dentures and dental bridges have been used to treat patients with missing teeth. However, these treatments are quickly being replaced with dental implants, which provide results that work and feel better than these other types of restoration. The many benefits that come with dental implants are the result of the overall structure of an implant, which is made up of three different pieces. We encourage you to read on to learn more about the dental implant pieces used by Dr. Barry Cohen and the benefits that result due to these pieces.
The Structure Of A Dental Implant
While we have seen dental implants that are made up of only two pieces, we prefer to use a system that is made up of three pieces. These are:
- The Implant Fixture: The implant fixture is the most important piece of the dental implant, as this is what will provide support for the entire structure. During the placement surgery, Dr. Cohen will place this piece in your jawbone, where a process called osseointegration will work to fuse it into your jaw structure. This process is only possible because the implant fixture is made from titanium, which is a biocompatible alloy that your body doesn’t recognize as unnatural. Thanks to osseointegration, your body will actually believe that your implant fixture is no different from any of your remaining tooth roots.
- The Abutment: The next piece of the dental implant is the abutment, which is used to connect your restoration to your implant fixture. Much like the fixture, the abutment is also typically made from titanium, though you will have more freedom when it comes to determining what this particular piece will be made from. This piece is typically placed after your implant fixture has healed, though there are situations where it will be attached directly after the implant’s placement.
- The Restoration: The restoration refers to the piece that will take the place of your missing tooth. This can take the form of a dental crown, a bridge, or even an overdenture. Regardless of which restoration best fits your needs, it will be custom-made for your smile, designed to fit perfectly while also replicating the look of your remaining natural teeth. This is possible because we base our restorations on your actual teeth.
Dental Implant Benefits
The reason dental implants are able to provide so many unique benefits is because of the process of osseointegration, which we spoke very briefly about above. Osseointegration is an organic process that occurs as your implant fixture heals. Because titanium is biocompatible, your jawbone will heal around the fixture, growing up along it. Each fixture is also covered in small holes, which your jawbone will be able to thread itself through, pulling the implant fixture in place and holding it there permanently.
Thanks to osseointegration, dental implants come with many exclusive benefits that can drastically improve your quality of life. For instance, the fact that your dental implants are held in place by your jawbone means that they should never get loose or fall out of place, both of which are common problems associated with dentures. This fusion to your jawbone also allows your implants to provide stimulation to your jawbone, preventing the structure from deteriorating.
One last benefit that comes with dental implants is the fact that they require no additional maintenance. In order to keep your implants healthy, you will only need to brush and floss them regularly, as well as attend your regularly scheduled checkups and cleanings. You will not need to purchase any additional products to keep them maintained. And, even with this minimal amount of care, your dental implants have the potential to last you the rest of your lifetime.
Learn More About Dental Implants In Drexel Hill, PA
Are you currently living in or around the Drexel Hill, Upper Darby, Havertown, Springfield, and Broomall, PA areas and are curious about what dental implants may be able to do for your smile? Then we encourage you to contact our office and schedule a free no-obligation consultation with Dr. Barry Cohen today. We also recommend that you read our guide on how to choose the right dental implant provider for your needs.
DENTAL IMPLANTS