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Dental implants are permanent cosmetic dentistry solutions that look and function like real teeth. For these prosthetics to remain in place and blend seamlessly with the rest of your teeth, they require crowns, abutments, and titanium screws. If you're unsure of what abutments are, here's what to know.

How Do Abutments Work?

Metal abutments connect dental crowns to titanium screws. The screws function as replacement tooth roots and take about six months to heal within the gums following minor surgery. Abutments can be installed in the gums along with the titanium screws or added later. Some people prefer to skip a second surgery and have abutments placed along with the screws, while others do not like the feeling of metal connectors without dental crowns and opt for two surgeries. 

What's the Procedure Like?

dental implants

Whether you want one or two dental implant surgeries, most procedures involve screwing a healing abutment, or cuff, onto the titanium tooth root first. The wide healing abutment encourages tissue regeneration, as gums need stimulation to heal efficiently. The prosthetic also creates space in the gums for the dental crown. 

If the healing abutment is added after the first surgery, the dentist makes a small incision in the gums to expose the titanium screw and install the metal connector. When the gum tissue has fully healed around the prosthetic after four to six weeks, the dentist removes the temporary abutment and replaces it with the permanent abutment and crown. 

How Can You Care for Your Dental Implants?

After the procedure, help your mouth heal efficiently by biting down on gauze for an hour at a time to control any bleeding and allow a clot to form. Repeat every six to 10 hours as needed. 

Do not touch the implant site for the rest of the day to avoid introducing bacteria, and refrain from aggressive rinsing that can dislodge the clot. OTC medication can minimize pain, and ice packs can reduce any bruising and swelling. Apply the packs for up to 20 minutes at a time for the first few days. 

Once your implant heals, care for it by brushing your teeth twice a day and flossing once daily to remove food debris, plaque, and bacteria. While implants are impervious to decay, bacteria can still build up around them and increase the risk of adjacent tooth decay, as well as gum irritation and recession. See your dentist on a biannual basis for teeth cleanings and checkups to ensure your implant and natural teeth are healthy. 

 

If dental implant services are right for your oral health needs, contact Darr Dentistry in Thomasville, NC. The dental practice has provided general and cosmetic dentistry services since 1999. They'll prioritize your comfort throughout the procedure and ensure the implant blends in with the rest of your teeth. Call (336) 475-1614 today to make an appointment, or visit their website for new patient information.

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