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Every time you replace a tooth with a dental implant, there are three parts involved: the implant, the implant abutment, and the fixed restoration. Together, the three segments make up the replacement “tooth” that’s generally referred to as the dental implant.

The Implant (Root)

The actual dental implant is the lower portion of the structure. It is essentially designed to make up the artificial “root” of the new tooth. And like natural teeth, it’s close to the same length and width. It’s ribbed and textured surface is crafted in a way that attracts tissue attachments with the bone in that immediate area. Once it’s fully integrated, the implant essentially becomes a permanent part of your oral anatomy. The integration is made possible by using biocompatible materials like titanium (which are common in other types of joint replacements or medical implants.) After it’s fused with the bone, it’s able to have the abutment placed onto it.

The Abutment

The implant is the smallest part of your dental implant. It has a small screw-like protrusion that affixes itself into a tiny opening at the top of the dental implant. Once your recovery period has passed, the implant is uncovered, and the abutment is twisted down into it.

Now that the abutment is securely attached, we’ll need to take another impression of your bite in that specific location. This custom mold will ensure not only an accurate fit for the restoration, but one that also aligns with your surrounding teeth.

The Implant Restoration

Your implant restoration is the final piece of reconstructing your smile. Once it’s bonded onto the implant abutment, no one should be able to differentiate it from the rest of your smile (other than your dental team, of course!).

The type of restoration that you need can range from a single porcelain dental crown to a multi-tooth prosthesis. For instance, a 3-4 unit (tooth) bridge can attach to a pair of implants to fill in a larger space. And if you need to rehabilitate your entire arch, we can use as few as 4-6 implants to permanently affix a hybrid device known as our TeethXpress treatment.

There’s truly something for everyone. But without each of these three parts of dental implants, you might be surprised when it comes time to discuss your smile plan with your cosmetic dentist in The Woodlands. The Woodlands patients know we’ll curate their care plan to fit both their anatomical needs as well as the ones impacting their emotional concerns.

Your Implant Specialist in The Woodlands

We have a board-certified periodontal specialist and expert in dental implant therapy. Whether you have one missing tooth or need to restore your entire smile with TeethXpress, our skilled provider can help. We’re proudly been serving the greater Conroe, The Woodlands, and surrounding communities since 1984.

Contact us today to reserve a consultation and find out if you qualify for this innovative treatment. Flexible financing plans are available.