The dental implant procedure involves three main parts:
- The implant—also called a post or artificial tooth root
- The abutment—a connector piece
- The prosthesis—artifical tooth crown, dental bridge, or denture/partial denture
In today’s message, we describe the crucial connecting component: the abutment.
What Is An Abutment?
The abutment is the connector piece between the implant and the artifical tooth. It links the crown, dental bridge, or denture to the implant.
Healing Abutments
Your dentist may mount a temporary healing abutment to the post during the initial surgery. A healing abutment is sometimes referred to as a ‘healing cuff’ or ‘healing cap.’
When the implant has fused with the bone and is ready for the final abutment, the healing abutment is taken off. Then the permanent abutment is affixed.
What Is The Abutment Made Of?
Abutments are fabricated with titanium, stainless steel, zirconia, gold, or polyether ketone. Each type of material has specific properties. Your dentist will choose the best material for your unique needs.
How Does My Dentist Attach The Abutment?
Attaching the abutment is a fairly quick procedure. Your dentist will make an incision in your gum tissue at the implant site to expose the implant. Then the abutment is attached. Your dentist may place the prosthesis at the same time. Or your dentist may wait until your gums have healed.
If you are researching the cost of a dental implant, determine whether the advertised price includes the abutment and prosthesis.
Contact Marcos Ortega DDS:
619-295-4545
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
306 Walnut Ave Ste 25
San Diego, California
92103