What’s a Dental Implant Abutment?
December 10, 2024 9:00 amIf you’re considering a dental implant or already on your way to getting one, you’ve probably heard the term “abutment.” While it might sound like complicated dental jargon, the abutment plays a simple yet essential role in restoring your smile. However, understanding how it works can help you feel more confident and informed throughout your dental implant journey.
The Basics of a Dental Implant
A dental implant has three main parts:
The Implant Post: A titanium screw that’s surgically placed into your jawbone, acting as an artificial tooth root.
The Abutment: A connector piece that joins the implant post to the crown.
The Crown: The visible part of the implant that looks and functions like a natural tooth.
The abutment is the middleman in this process—it securely attaches the crown to the implant and ensures everything stays in place.
When is the Abutment Placed?
After the implant post is inserted into your jawbone, it typically takes a few months for the bone to heal and fuse with the implant. Then, once the post is stable, the abutment is placed. This is usually a quick procedure performed under local anesthesia. The gum tissue is opened, and the abutment is attached to the implant. Sometimes, the abutment and crown are placed simultaneously.
Why is the Abutment Important?
The abutment plays a crucial role in the strength and functionality of your dental implant. It ensures the crown is securely attached to the implant and positioned correctly for proper biting and chewing. Abutments are typically made from durable materials like titanium or zirconia to withstand the forces of daily use while maintaining a natural look.
Restore Your Smile at Dental Salon in Cedar Park, TX
At Dental Salon, Dr. Ana Torres and her team specialize in making dental implant procedures as seamless and stress-free as possible. If you’re considering an implant or have questions about any part of the process—including abutments—our Cedar Park, TX office is here to guide you. Schedule a consultation today and let us help you achieve a beautiful, functional smile that lasts a lifetime!
Image from Authority Dental under CC 2.0
This post was written by Dental Salon
