Dental implants in Houston provide unparalleled stability and security after tooth loss. As they grow in popularity, more people are coming to us with questions about dental implants — from the very basics all the way to the nitty gritty details. To help unwrap the mystery surrounding this method of tooth replacement, we’re doing a five-part series on what you need to know about dental implants. Keep reading for part one, when we answer what dental implants really are.
Dental Implants Are Replacement Roots
A common misconception when people think about what dental implants are is that they are the actual replacement tooth. Not so! Rather, the dental implant is actually a replacement for your missing tooth’s root. It is surgically implanted directly beneath the gum line, in the area where the root structure was. Once it is here, the titanium material (which dental implants are made out of) promotes the growth of bone tissue. It gradually fuses with the jaw over the period of four to six months. After this fusion is complete, the dental implants are exposed once more and the replacement tooth/teeth can be placed on top. A traditional dental implant, therefore, is made of three parts:- The titanium dental implant post, which provides a sturdy foundation for the prosthetic tooth.
- A connecting abutment, which joins the two implant post and the replacement tooth/teeth securely together.
- The prosthetic crown, bridge, or denture which is connected to the dental implant post.