What are Dental Implants North Liberty, IA

Dr. Jeremy Tu is a talented dentist in North Liberty, IA, who restores missing and damaged teeth with dental implants. He can create an effective treatment plan to help you regain your oral health by utilizing implants. He specializes in implant dentistry and has the experience you need to assist you with tooth replacement.

Dental implants have taken over as the number one solution for teeth replacement. They offer more benefits than any other solution. But have you ever wondered what teeth implants are and how exactly they work? An implant-supported restoration is a sophisticated piece that will effectively replace any number of missing teeth. Below, we explain the separate parts used and what purpose they serve.

what are dental implants? north liberty ia

Parts of a Dental Implant

You can replace any number of damaged or missing teeth with an implant-supported restoration. The replacement teeth have three separate parts: the implant, the abutment, and the restoration.

The Dental Implant

The dental implant is the part that sets this tooth replacement option apart from the rest. It is a screw-like post that an oral surgeon must surgically insert into the jaw bone. They are typically made of titanium since this metal is light yet very strong. Also, titanium works well with the human body.

Over a period of three to six months, the implant will fuse with the surrounding bone. By placing it in the bone, the implant will act as a replacement tooth root, preventing bone loss and providing a strong, sturdy base to support the replacement teeth. Depending on the type of restoration you need to support, you will need anywhere from one to eight implants per arch.

The Abutment

Your dentist will open up the gum and attach the abutment to the dental implant. This minor procedure takes place once the implant fuses to the bone. An abutment is responsible for connecting the implant to the restoration. After attachment, your gums will need to heal for a few more weeks.

The Dental Restoration

The last part is the actual dental restoration. The type you will need depends on the number of missing teeth you have and where they are located in your mouth. A single missing tooth will require a dental crown, which will be attached to a single dental implant.

Several missing teeth can be replaced with a dental bridge or partial denture. This requires two or more implants. We will use a denture to replace a whole row of missing teeth. Up to eight dental implants will hold a denture in place. Dr. Tu will attach the restoration at your final appointment in his North Liberty, IA dentist office.


Each dental implant case is unique to the patient. A solution that works for one implant patient will not be the same for the next implant patient. To learn more about how implants can replace your missing or damaged teeth, schedule a consultation with Dr. Tu.

Here, he can analyze your oral health and find the right dental implant solution for you. Call (319) 284-4361 or request an appointment online to get started with your teeth implant journey today! Design Dental is conveniently located in North Liberty, IA.