Abutments in dental implants are the base of the crown. It usually made of Titanium, Zirconia or gold. Zirconia is more favourable because of its colour which is very close to the colour of natural teeth.
The Function of Abutments
The abutment is attached to the implant to serve as a connection between the implant and the fixture. It helps securing the fixture in its place. In most cases a healing abutment is used before installing the final abutment.
Healing abutments prevent the need for a second surgery because the dentist will only reshape the gum around the implant to install the crown instead of making deep incisions into the gum tissue.
Your dentist should explain the function of each piece in your dental implant for example in Dentakay clinic, an international dental clinic in Istanbul Turkey, dentists will explain the dental implant procedure indetail and will also explain the function of each and every part of your implant. All of which is important understand the procedure and to know what to expect at each and every stage.
Abutments in Dental Implants
Dental implants consist of many parts and each of these part play a significant role in achieving the wanted results that a patient wishes to accomplish both aesthetically and medically.
1- The post
It is the first part of a dental implant. It functions as a substitute to the root of the missing tooth. This part of the implant is inserted into the jawbone, because it is made of titanium, which is biocompatible. This step determines the success of the dental implant.
2- The Abutment
At this phase comes after the healing process is complete. The abutment, which is also usually made of titanium, is attached to the implant to carry the fixture later on.
3- The Fixture
The fixtures come in three different forms:
– Crowns: used to replace a single missing tooth.
– Bridges: used to replace two or more missing teeth.
– Implant supported Dentures: used instead of the traditional overdentures.
Types of Dental Abutments
Removable abutments are the most popular and most used in dental implant procedures. Dentists in Dentakay clinic prefer this type to any other types because it is more hygienic, easier to inspect and maintain.
Dentists use two different types of abutments:
– Premanufactured Abutments: these abutments differ in size, shape and material. Your dentist will choose which one to use according to many different factors including the type of implant you are getting and the location of the implant itself.
– Custom made Abutments: many factors play important roles in customising the abutment including the type of the implant. In some cases the abutment is designed as one piece with crown. In other cases special anchoring systems may be used.
Abutments may vary in shape size and material but all play a major role in making dental implant procedures succeed. That is why choosing the right dentist or the right dental clinic, who in turn will choose the right material is important. Focusing on quality will save you a lot of pain and money as well.