Dental implants offer an innovative way to replace a missing tooth. Learn more about the parts of a dental implant and the advantages of this tooth replacement option from Dr. John Rosenlieb, Dr. Robert Alexander, Dr. Bruce Abel and Dr. Joe Parets--your West Hartford, CT dentists at Comprehensive Dental Care.

Dental implant parts

Dental implants consist of three parts that work together to form one artificial tooth. The parts include:

• The Titanium Implant: The implant looks like a small screw and acts as the root for your new tooth. It's constructed of titanium, a strong, lightweight metal that is capable of bonding to bone. During the first step of the implant process, your West Hartford dentist makes an opening in your jawbone to hold the implant. Bonding, the most important part of the process, takes a little time but is usually complete in about three to six months.
• The Abutment: The abutment connects the implant to the crown. It's usually made of titanium or ceramic and is placed on your dental implant once bonding takes place.
• The Crown: Since implants only replace the tooth roots, you'll also need a replacement for the portion of the tooth visible above the gum line. Dental crowns are the perfect option because they look just like your natural teeth. Crowns are attached to your gum line and cemented in place.

Implant advantages

Longevity is the most impressive benefit of dental implants. Your implant will remain attached to your jawbone for your entire life, as long as you practice good oral hygiene. If you choose to replace your missing tooth with a bridge, you'll probably need to replace it at least several times, as bridges tend to wear out after five to 15 years.

Implants feel more like real teeth than any other tooth replacement option. Since the implant is firmly rooted in your jaw, your new tooth won't slip and irritate your gums or move when you chew.

Restore your smile with dental implants! Call Drs. Rosenlieb, Alexander, Abel and Parets, your West Hartford, CT dentists at Comprehensive Dental Care, at (860) 233-7514 to schedule your implant consultation.