DENTAL IMPLANTS AT CORBIN DENTAL
Dentists and prosthodontists have developed a more sophisticated way to replace teeth to help the millions of Americans who are missing at least one tooth. Today, dental implants are the number one recommended way to replace missing teeth. But what are they and how do they work? Dr. Richard Corbin and Dr. Bruce Corbin with Corbin Dental are experts in the field of implant dentistry. They can help you learn more about what dental implants are and how they work. We also provide complete dental implant services in Queens.
WHAT ARE DENTAL IMPLANTS: THE PARTS
A dental implant restoration is made up of three separate parts. A dentist links the implant post, an abutment, and a dental restoration together to form a secure tooth replacement option.
THE POST
The post is the part of a dental implant restoration that sets it apart from other restorations. This metal, screw-like post is actually surgically placed in the jaw bone. It will serve many purposes including: replacing the missing tooth root and supporting the restoration. Using dental implants to secure a restoration will prevent bone loss, keep the restoration from shifting in the mouth, and allow you to eat a variety of foods.
Dental implants are available in different lengths and diameters. Dentists use different implants to accommodate the different areas along the top and bottom jaw. Typically, dentists use shorter and thicker implant posts towards the back of the mouth. Alternatively, they use longer and narrower implant posts towards the front of the mouth.
The number of dental implant posts you will need depends on how many teeth you are missing and where they are located. A dental crown will only require a single implant while a dental bridge or denture will require multiple dental implants.
THE ABUTMENT
The next part is a small piece known as an abutment. Its purpose is to connect the implant to the actual restoration. Our dentist attaches it directly to the implant in one of two ways.
In some instances, we will recommend a healing abutment. We place it on the implant immediately following the surgical placement to help the gum tissues heal properly around the implant site. When the implant has fully fused with the surrounding bone, we remove it and replace it with the permanent abutment.
With a two stage abutment, the implant site is sutured shut after implantation. When the implant has fused with the bone, we then open the sutures back up and attach the permanent abutment.
THE RESTORATION OR CAP
The dental restoration is the final part that completes the dental implant structure. Depending on how many teeth you are missing and where they are located along the jaw, you will either have a dental crown, a dental bridge, or a denture attached to your implant posts.
If you are missing one tooth, we will attach a dental crown to a single dental implant. If you are missing multiple consecutive teeth, we will recommend replacing your lost teeth with a dental bridge and at least two implant posts. Missing many or all of your teeth? Your Corbin Dental dentist will replace your teeth with a denture and up to eight implant posts.
Schedule a Dental Implant Consultation Today
If you would like to learn more about dental implants, schedule a complementary dental implant consultation with Dr. Richard Corbin or Dr. Bruce Corbin. We offer expert dental implant services at all of our dentist office locations in Queens, NY.