Missing teeth can affect more than just your appearance. They can impact your ability to eat, speak, and smile confidently. For many people, dental implants provide the ideal solution to restore both function and aesthetics.
The long-term success of this tooth replacement doesn’t solely rely on the procedure itself, but on the materials each part is made from! This combination of placement and high-quality components can help you understand why they are as durable as they are known to be. Continue reading to learn how these materials can make a difference to the lifespan of dental implants.
What Are the Parts of a Dental Implant?
One thing that makes this tooth replacement desirable among patients and dentists alike is that it replaces the entire missing tooth. It has three main parts that do so, which are the:
- Dental Implant Post: This part is surgically placed into your jawbone and fuses with it to form a stable foundation. It acts like a natural tooth root, stimulating your jaw and keeping it healthy. The dental implant post is commonly made of titanium or zirconium, both of which are strong and durable materials.
- Abutment: This portion of the tooth replacement is the link that connects the supporting post to the visible restoration. It can be made from the same two materials as the dental implant post, so it has the strength it needs to hold the restoration in place.
- Customized Restoration: The prosthetic used to restore the look and function of a missing tooth is commonly made from either porcelain or acrylic. Both materials can blend in with your smile, but the latter option is less durable and may require more frequent replacements.
How Do Materials Affect the Longevity of Dental Implants?
The materials used for dental implants can aid in the strength, durability, and aesthetic appearance that the tooth replacement option is known for, but why is that the case? That’s because each one has abilities that make it great for dentistry.
For instance, titanium is highly biocompatible, meaning it is compatible with living tissue and does not cause adverse effects. Your jaw is more likely to fuse with the dental implant post and not reject it. When this process is successful, your dental implant will have the stability and longevity it’s known for.
Similarly, zirconia is biocompatible. If you have a metal sensitivity or are concerned with the aesthetics of your tooth replacement, then this material offers excellent durability. Titanium and zirconia are resistant to or less prone to corrosion, so that the dental implant doesn’t degrade or release harmful substances to the surrounding tissue.
The porcelain and acrylic restorations are made with your smile in mind. A dental lab crafts each one custom to the patient, so that it matches their natural teeth. Porcelain can reflect light just like natural tooth enamel, so people can only focus on your full grin! While acrylic is not as durable and may need to be replaced more often, both are excellent for the restoration.
Ultimately, the materials used in dental implants are just as important as the procedure itself. With the help of your dentist, you can find the right ones to ensure that your tooth replacement lasts a lifetime!
About the Practice
At Legacy Trails Dental of Plano, you benefit from a team of skilled dentists who are dedicated to giving you the oral healthcare you need. We believe you deserve the best for your smile and only use high-quality materials. If you come to us for dental implants, you can rest assured knowing your treatment will be fully customized to you with your smile in mind. If you’re looking to fill gaps in your teeth, schedule an appointment or call us at (469) 208-6017.