One of the top questions we receive about dental implants at Palencia Dental is what are dental implants made of? How can this dental treatment provide you with the same strength, durability, and functionality as your natural teeth? Dr. Kinsey, your cosmetic dentist in St. Augustine, FL, is here to answer all the questions you might have about dental implants.
Materials that Make Dental Implants
Three pieces make up the dental implant, each made with different materials.
Base – The base resembles a screw made of titanium. It fuses with the jaw bone to give you a secure and stable foundation for your replacement tooth.
Connector – The connector, also referred to as an “abutment,” connects the base to the crown or restoration. Usually, the abutment is made of titanium or zirconia to provide the same strength and durability as the base and restoration.
Restoration – Attached to the abutment is a restoration of some sort. This depends on how many teeth you’re missing and what you’ve chosen to replace them with. Your restoration is usually a dental crown, denture, or dental bridge. Dr. Kinsey will discuss the materials in each of these restorations. Generally, we use ceramic for dental crowns and dental bridges and a combination of materials for dentures.
Dental Implants Procedure
If you want dental implants to replace your missing teeth, first, Dr. Kinsey will determine if you’re a good candidate for the procedure. If you have unhealthy gums or not enough jawbone, she will recommend an alternative treatment or ways to improve your mouth’s health.
Next, she will take x-rays and impressions of your teeth. She uses these to plan for your procedure and to create your restorations. After she plans your surgery, she will surgically place the dental implants in your jaw. You must then wait for up to six months for your jaw bone to grow around the implant and heal completely. Once you heal, Dr. Kinsey will place the abutment and attach your restoration to the implant. Some patients may be good candidates to skip the healing period and have their restoration placed the same day as their implant. It depends on the individual patient.
The materials used for dental implants are high-quality to give you a beautiful tooth replacement for years to come. If you would like to learn more about dental implants or would like to receive a consultation from Dr. Kinsey, please contact our dental office in St. Augustine by calling (904) 474-5444 today.
