What Does an Implant Tooth Look Like?

Author Dominic Townsend

Posted Nov 25, 2022

Reads 42

Library with lights

A dental implant tooth is a restoration that mimics the look and feel of a natural tooth, providing an aesthetically pleasing and comfortable solution to missing teeth. Unlike conventional bridges and dentures, an implant tooth is placed directly into the jaw bone, creating a strong foundation and permanent solution for tooth replacement.

The look of an implant tooth is customized to match the aesthetic of your surrounding natural teeth, with a wide range of colors and shapes available to suit the needs and desires of each individual patient. A dental technician will typically work with your dentist to ensure the implant tooth is created to match it with your other teeth as closely as possible. However, as the tooth is implanted directly into the jaw bone, the look may vary from a real tooth.

An implant tooth consists of at least three attached components. The titanium post is implanted directly into the jaw bone and acts as a stub for the other components to attach to, creating a solid base. The abutment, which is a connector between the post and the visible part of the implant tooth, allows the restoration to fit securely in the mouth and match the color of your surrounding teeth. Finally, the crown of the implant tooth, which is the visible part of the restoration in the mouth, is also customized and made to resemble a real tooth as closely as possible.

Modern implant tooth technology continues to improve as innovation leads to more lifelong solutions for tooth replacement. The implant post is made of titanium, which is known for its durable, biocompatible design. As implants are designed to fit with your other teeth, the materials used to make an implant tooth are similar to those used for crowns and bridges, including porcelain and other strong yet light materials. This strong yet light construction allows for comfortable chewing and smiling and allows for unprecedented stability and durability.

Overall, an implant tooth is designed specifically to provide a replacement for a missing tooth with an advanced, long-lasting design that looks and functions like a natural tooth. The implant post also provides a firm and secure foundation upon which the abutment and crown are attached to assist in providing a natural looking and comfortable solution for tooth replacement. With advanced technology and customization available, an implant tooth can provide a comfortable, aesthetically pleasing solution for restoring your smile.

What materials are used to make an implant tooth?

Modern dentistry has revolutionized the way we care for our teeth by providing us with a variety of options to replace our natural teeth. One of the most popular solutions is implant dentistry, which requires the placement of a “replacement tooth root” directly into the jawbone to provide a secure base for a new permanent dental crown or bridge. While implants can look and feel just like natural teeth, they are made using various materials depending on a variety of factors.

Most implant teeth have three main parts: the implant itself, an abutment, and the new replacement tooth. The implant is typically made from pure titanium, which is a strong, durable, and biocompatible metal. Titanium is used because it naturally bonds to the jawbone, creating a sturdy foundation for the new replacement tooth. The abutment is the connector piece between the implant and the new tooth and is usually made of titanium alloy for strength. The new artificial tooth, usually made of porcelain, is crafted to exactly match the size and shape of the lost tooth, providing a natural and aesthetic appearance.

When a proper implant is placed in the jawbone, it typically requires between two and six months to fully heal and bonds, or “osseointegrates” with the jawbone. After the healing period, an abutment is affixed to the implant and the new replacement tooth is attached to the abutment. Depending on the patient’s tooth replacement needs, there are several different types of materials that are used to create the new replacement teeth.

If the patient requires a single tooth replacement, a dental crown composed of porcelain is typically the most natural-looking choice. Porcelain is a strong and durable material that can be crafted to match the exact colour and size of the neighboring teeth. In some cases, a combination of porcelain and metal may be used for enhanced strength. If a patient is missing several teeth, a fixed dental bridge may be the most suitable option. A bridge is a type of replacement teeth that utilizes adjacent teeth for support, similar to a bridge for a model train set. As with the crowns, porcelain is typically the material of choice, however some patients may opt for a bridge that is composed of a combination of porcelain and metal for added strength and durability.

The process of implanting a new tōth is highly advanced, and requires careful

How does an implant tooth compare to a natural tooth in terms of appearance?

An implant tooth and a natural tooth can look surprisingly similar when properly cared for but it is important to understand that there are some important differences between them. Implant teeth are artificial teeth that are surgically implanted into the jawbone, typically made out of titanium, and held in place with the help of a titanium abutment and a variety of methods depending on the preference of the patient. Natural teeth, on the other hand, are completely natural, living entities that are rooted in the mouth and are made up of several materials, including a hard outer layer of enamel and an internal structure of dentin.

Cosmetically speaking, when done correctly, an implant tooth can look very similar to a natural tooth. With the help of an experienced team of dental professionals, the abutment and crown of an implant tooth can be shaped, colored, and textured to reflect most natural teeth. However, the anatomy and sturdiness of an implant tooth are where the differences between it and a natural tooth become evident. The materials used to make an implant tooth are strong and durable, but they are not living structures like natural teeth. Natural teeth move and adjust to their environments while an implant tooth is completely stationary and does not move or respond to pressure. This can take away from the overall comfort of an implant tooth. Additionally, an implant tooth can malfunction if an infection occurs in the area, but a natural tooth can require repair if it is damaged.

In terms of stability, a natural tooth is often the better option. Natural teeth are typically supported by the jawbone, the gums, and the roots, which makes them more resistant to the forces of other teeth in the mouth. An implant tooth, however, cannot shift in order to disperse the pressure from other teeth, and the stability of an implant tooth relies solely on the strength of the titanium abutment and the dental cement used to secure it in place. In the long term, this can make an implant tooth less durable than its natural counterpart.

It is clear to see that while an implant tooth can look very similarly to a natural tooth, there are some important differences between them, particularly in terms of their structure, comfortability, and stability. Understanding these differences is key to ensuring the longevity and comfort of an implant tooth. When in doubt, consulting a trained dental professional to determine the best way forward is recommended.

What is the process for getting an implant tooth?

The process for getting an implant tooth is one that requires patients to work with their dentist to plan and prepare for the procedure. It is an involved process that involves multiple dental visits and treatments, but it is important to understand the steps involved so that you can best prepare for the outcome.

The first step in the process of getting an implant tooth is meeting with your dentist to discuss your goals and evaluate your oral health. During this visit, your dentist will review your medical and dental history, take a thorough examination of your mouth, and make an impression of the area to be treated. This initial visit is important because it allows your dentist to understand what type of implant tooth is best for your current health needs, in addition to developing a plan that best suits your individual situation.

The next step is the placement of the implant tooth. This is an important step as it ensures that your implant tooth is securely positioned within your existing dental arch. During this appointment, your dental professional will numbs the area so that you do not feel any discomfort, clean and prepare the area with a sterile solution, place the implant tooth into the jawbone, and suture the gums. This ensures that the implant tooth is in place and will act as the base for the restorative tooth.

The next step is the integration of the implant tooth into the jawbone. During this part of the process, your dentist allows your body to become accustomed to the new implant tooth by checking back periodically to evaluate the progress of bone healing and growth. Usually, this process can take several months, depending on the type of implant being placed. After the healing is complete, the dentist will be able to move forward with the final stages of the implant tooth process.

The final steps involve the construction and placement of the restorative tooth or “crown”. During this stage, the dentist will use the impression taken in the initial visit to create a dental crown that perfectly fits into the existing dental arch. Your dentist will likely take additional impressions and color photographs of the area in order to create the custom crown. Once the crown is ready, your dentist will place it onto the implant and secure the prosthetic with abutment screws.

Getting a new implant tooth is a lengthy process that usually involves multiple appointments with your dental provider over a period of several months. By understanding the various steps and stages in the process, you can best prepare for the outcome and make sure

How much does an implant tooth cost?

When considering the cost of an implant tooth, it is difficult to give a general answer since many variables influence the price. Depending on the type of implant tooth that a person needs, the cost can range from several hundred dollars to tens of thousands of dollars. The cost also varies based on the dentist and dental clinic that is providing the service, the materials used, the complexity of the implant procedure and other factors.

The type of implant tooth that a person requires is the major factor that determines the cost. For example, a single implant, also called an endosteal implant, which fuses into the jawbone and then supports a single crown, is typically less expensive than a multiple implant such as an overdenture or bridges. It could cost around $1,500 for a single implant but can be a few thousand for multiple implants. Another variable is the type of prosthetic tooth used – a porcelain crown, bridge or denture. There may be additional fees for the laboratory fees to custom-make the pricey implant teeth, as well as the anesthesia fees to place them.

The location, the materials used and the complexity of the surgery are additional factors that can influence the price of the implant tooth. In general, more costly materials such as all-porcelain teeth will usually result in a more costly implant procedure. Surgeries that involve specialized techniques, such as Sinus lift, or that are significantly more difficult, such as placing an implant in the back of the mouth, will also result in higher costs. The geographic location in which the implant tooth procedure is performed is also a factor – prices vary based on the cost of living in the area and the cost of materials. For example, implant procedures cost more in major cities than in rural areas.

Ultimately, the cost of a dental implant tooth can depend on several factors and the price can range significantly. A trusted dental professional can provide an estimate that includes all of the necessary fees, materials and procedures to be done as part of the implant tooth process. It is important to research thoroughly and to find a qualified dental professional who can provide the best outcome and the most cost-effective procedure.

How is an implant tooth attached to the jawbone?

There are many different types of dental implants, and the method used to attach an implant tooth to the jawbone will depend on the specific type of implant chosen. Generally, all dental implants involve attaching a metal or ceramic post to the jawbone, which serves as the base for an artificial tooth, or teeth. The post will be inserted into the jawbone through a surgical procedure and secured in place with surgical screws. This will create a stable base for the replacement teeth and will provide them with the foundation they need to remain solidly in place.

The most widely used type of implant is the endosteal implant. With this type, the post is often made from a titanium alloy and is placed directly into the jawbone. After a few weeks of surgical healing, a connector piece, called an abutment, will usually be attached to the post. This abutment will allow for the attachment of a crown or a bridge, which is the artificial tooth that will be seen when someone smiles.

For some implant procedures, a subperiosteal implant may be used. With this type, the post is shaped like a metal frame and is inserted just below the gum line. This post is held in place by a series of metal posts or columns that protrude through the gum tissue and into the jawbone. An artificial tooth is then attached to the metal frame.

In some cases, a zygomatic implant may be used. This type of implant utilizes two independent posts that are placed into the zygomatic bone of the cheekbone. Below the gum tissue, these posts hold an artificial tooth in place.

Overall, the process used to attach an implant tooth to the jawbone will vary depending on the type of implant used. In general, however, the implant post will be placed into the jawbone and the artificial tooth will be secured to the post or to a metal or ceramic frame using surgical screws. With proper care and maintenance, the implant tooth can remain in place for years to come and will provide a long-term, esthetic solution to tooth loss.

How does an implant tooth feel compared to a natural tooth?

Tooth replacement technology has come a long way in recent years. Replacing lost teeth can help improve dental health and prevent further problems, but the choice to use implants or not can involve a wide range of considerations. One of the most important relates to how an implanted tooth feels compared to a natural tooth.

Many people worry that implant teeth will not feel like their natural teeth. However, modern implant technology is highly advanced, and a properly installed implant is designed to feel just like an original tooth. The type of implant used, and the particular implant tooth, will play a role in the overall feeling. For the most part, though, people who have an implant tooth say that it feels no different than a natural tooth.

Implant teeth are custom-made for each individual patient and are designed to integrate with the jawbone. This custom-fit helps the implant feel more natural in the mouth by providing stability, solid structure, and a secure anchor. This also helps with speaking and other oral motions, as the fit will be more natural and natural looking. The area around the new tooth can also feel a little different at first, as it takes time for the gum tissues to adjust to the new material and secure attachment. The feeling in this area will also normalize as time passes.

The success of any dental implant can also depend heavily on the process and preparation that go into the placement. For example, an experienced and skilled implant dentist will ensure that the implant is placed at the right angle and depth, with adequate bone structure and healthy gum tissue. All of these factors contribute to an implant that looks and feels more like a real tooth.

In addition to the materials and techniques used to place the implant tooth, the materials used to make the implant crown (the visible part of the tooth above the gum line) also play an important role in the feeling of the tooth. A high-quality porcelain crown should look and feel just like a natural tooth.

In most cases, an implant tooth should feel indistinguishable from a natural tooth after it has fully healed and the tissue around it is adjusted. With proper oral hygiene and regular check-ups, an implant tooth can last for many years. That means little difference in feeling between the implant and the natural teeth – allowing for a more natural smile.

All in all, the feeling of an implant tooth compared to a natural tooth is often unnoticeable.

What are the benefits of getting an implant tooth?

Pain, cost and recovery time can be downright scary when you’re faced with the prospect of getting a tooth implant. But despite these negative aspects, there are many advantages too. From improved physical and emotional wellbeing to a better quality of life, the benefits of a tooth implant are hard to ignore.

Aesthetically, tooth implants look as close to real teeth as possible. This means that besides replacing a missing tooth that looks and feels natural, implants also restore your natural facial features. A dental implant, unlike dentures and bridges, helps keep the jawbone from deteriorating and sustaining the shape of your face. As a result of these natural benefits, restoring your smile, look and confidence is expected with tooth implants.

Health-wise, an implant tooth is a great choice for many reasons. While other types of tooth replacements can easily wear down over time, an implant supports and secures your replacement tooth. As it is fused directly to your jawbone, an implant can last a lifetime with proper care and oral hygiene. Unlike other treatments, tooth implants do not require any surrounding teeth to be altered or affected.

Most importantly, tooth implants can be great for your overall wellbeing. By restoring your full, natural smile, you can improve your ability to eat, speak and function without difficulties. And as self-confidence has a great effect on overall wellbeing, restoring your smile can reduce the anxieties and psychological distress of having a missing tooth.

Overall, tooth implants are an excellent choice for replacing a missing tooth and improving your quality of life. With its natural aesthetic and health benefits, a dental implant can restore your smile, self-confidence and much more. While it can be scary to get an implant tooth, the end result can be highly worth it.

How long does it take to get an implant tooth?

For anyone considering getting an implant tooth, understanding how long the process takes is essential to planning for the procedure and its associated costs. The timeline for getting an implant tooth can vary widely based on individual conditions and techniques used, but there is generally a standard timeline for the process.

Implant placement is the first step in the process of getting an implant tooth. This involves surgically placing a small titanium post or screw in your jawbone. This can take anywhere from a few minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity of the procedure and the skill of the dentist performing the surgery. Once the implant is in place, there may be some downtime as you heal. This usually only takes a few days to a few weeks, and involves caring for the area while your body heals around the implant post itself.

The next step in getting an implant tooth is the abutment placement. This involves placing a metal component (usually made of titanium) in the newly placed implant post. The abutment helps to hold the permanent crown in place. This step typically takes less than an hour, depending on the complexity of the procedure and the dentist’s skill.

Once the abutment is in place, a custom crown can be made to fit over it. This is typically done with digital impressions of your teeth, and can take about two to three weeks, though it may take longer if there are complications. During this time, a temporary crown is usually worn to protect the area and give you a more natural look.

Finally, the permanent crown is placed over the abutment and you will have your completed implant tooth. This usually only takes a few minutes, and you can start using it right away.

Overall, the process of getting an implant tooth typically takes anywhere from two to eight weeks, depending on the skill of the dentist and the complexity of the procedure. There may be some downtime in between each step, and you may need supplementary procedures like bone augmentation if your bones are not suitable for implants initially. If you have any questions or concerns, you should speak to a qualified dentist who can give you a better estimation of the timeline for your individual situation.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does a single tooth dental implant cost?

A single tooth dental implant ranges from around $4800 to $10,000.

How many dental implants do I Need?

This will vary depending on the individual’s dental needs, so it would be best to talk to a dentist about your specific case. Generally speaking, however, you’ll need at least two dental implants to replace teeth that are missing.

Does dental insurance pay for dental implants?

Typically, dental insurance pays for a small portion of the total cost of implants. The percent of reimbursement may vary by procedure. There may also be a dollar cap on reimbursement for a given calendar year or even a lifetime cap for a given procedure.

How much do dental implants cost?

The cost of dental implants range from $75 to $650. Depending on your specific situation and insurance coverage, you may be able to find lower or higher costs.

Is a dental bridge cheaper than a single tooth implant?

A dental bridge is a more affordable option than a single tooth implant. However, they both cost significantly more than a traditional filling or restoration.

Dominic Townsend

Dominic Townsend

Writer at CGAA

View Dominic's Profile

Dominic Townsend is a successful article author based in New York City. He has written for many top publications, such as The New Yorker, Huffington Post, and The Wall Street Journal. Dominic is passionate about writing stories that have the power to make a difference in people’s lives.

View Dominic's Profile