What Are the Different Parts of a Dental Implant?

Replacing your missing or damaged teeth with dental implants in Land O’ Lakes is one of the best things you can do for your oral health. Since this popular tooth-replacement option is the closest thing to natural teeth, dental implants effectively restore dental health and function.

A dental implant comprises carefully designed components that provide a strong, stable, and natural-looking set of teeth. Each component plays a critical role in ensuring a successful outcome, from the implant body to the prosthetic tooth. Let’s take a closer look at the different parts of a dental implant. 

A Closer Look at the Different Parts of a Dental Implant

Implant Body

The implant body is the main part of the dental implant that your dentist surgically inserts into your jawbone. It’s typically cylindrical or tapered in shape and is made of biocompatible materials, such as titanium or zirconia. Furthermore, the implant body replaces the tooth root and is specially designed to fuse with your bone over time via osseointegration. Once it fully integrates with your jawbone, it provides a permanent, strong, and stable foundation for the prosthetic tooth that your dentist attaches to it. 

Abutment

The dentist attaches the connector piece, or abutment, to the top of the implant body. This component protrudes from your gum line and serves as a base for the prosthetic tooth. Abutments are typically made of various materials, including titanium, zirconia, or ceramic.  

Moreover, your dentist customizes them to fit your specific needs. While some abutments are pre-fabricated, others are custom-made by a dental laboratory to ensure an optimal fit and aesthetic outcome. 

Prosthetic Tooth

Also known as the implant crown, the prosthetic tooth is the visible part of the dental implant that looks, feels, and functions like a natural tooth. It’s usually made of porcelain or ceramic and is designed to match the surrounding teeth’s size, shape, and color. Depending on the implant system, your dentist will attach your prosthetic tooth to the abutment using a screw or dental cement.

Considering Dental Implants in Land O’ Lakes?

At Lake Park Dental, we take a unique and flexible approach to treatment by creating a personalized dentistry plan for each patient. Contact us today to make an appointment.