What is a Dental Abutment?
Never heard of a dental abutment before? You are not alone. If you have recently started to consider getting a dental implant, you may hear about dental abutments for the first time. A dental abutment is one of the multiple parts that makes up the dental implant. Below is more information about dental implants and a more detailed definition of a dental abutment.
What are Dental Implants?
Dental implants are a stable and secure tooth replacement option. An implant is a metal post that is surgically inserted into the jawbone below the gums to serve as the root of the new replacement tooth. Once all the pieces are installed, the implant is a natural-looking replacement that restores all of the functions of a natural tooth, while providing durability and stability.
Definition of Abutments
Technically, the word abutment comes from the field of engineering where it refers to a support structure at the end of a bridge section. Outside of engineering, the word abutment often refers to a structure designed to support or reinforce another object.
In dentistry, a dental abutment is the extender, or support piece, attached on top of the implant to secure an artificial tooth. The abutment is a short, wide screw that extends above the gumline to support the artificial tooth. In general, abutments are made from metal or a tooth-colored material, or they are designed as a part of the fixture implant.
The Implant Procedure
The dental implant treatment procedure is a bit more complex than other tooth replacement treatments and does require dental surgery. How complex the treatment is largely depends on the health of the jawbone and the type of implant selected. In general, the implant treatment will occur over multiple dental visits.
Here are the typical steps of the implant treatment process:
- Pre-surgery appointment: The pre-surgical appointment is an important step to help you prepare for the implant procedure. The dentist will explain the treatment plan, the timeline of the treatment process, and what to expect for pain and recovery. Your dentist will also want to conduct an exam to evaluate the health of the teeth and jawbones, and to take x-rays and impressions. This exam will help them plan the surgery steps, pick an implant, and ensure the health of the jawbone is good enough to handle the new implant and the procedure.
- Outpatient surgery: The biggest step is the implant surgery. The goal of the surgery is to insert the dental implant fixture into the jawbone. Fortunately, the surgery is simple as the implant needs to be placed just below the gumline. However, some pain and swelling should be expected after the procedure.
Healing time: The next step of process will not occur for weeks because it is critically important to allow several weeks for the jawbone to heal around the implant. This healing process is essential to ensure the implant remains secure in the jawbone. - Attaching the crown: After the gums have healed and the implant is secure, it is time to attach the abutment and the artificial crown. Your dentist will have ordered the abutment and the crown previously and selected a crown to match your other natural teeth.