Signs You May Need Dental Implants

1. The Implant Post: This is a small, screw-like post typically made from biocompatible titanium. It is surgically placed directly into the jawbone, where the root of the missing tooth once was. Titanium is used because of its remarkable ability to fuse with living bone tissue, a biological process known as osseointegration. This fusion creates an incredibly strong and stable foundation, essentially becoming a new, artificial tooth root.

2. The Abutment: After the implant post has fully integrated with the jawbone—a process that can take several months—a connector piece called an abutment is attached. The abutment sits at or just above the gum line and serves as the docking point for the final restoration. It acts as a bridge between the submerged implant post and the visible crown.

3. The Crown: The final piece is the custom-made crown, which is the part of the restoration that looks and feels like a natural tooth. It is meticulously crafted from high-quality materials like ceramic or porcelain to match the color, shape, and size of your surrounding teeth. The crown is securely attached to the abutment, completing the restoration and providing a fully functional chewing surface and a natural-looking appearance.