If you’re missing a tooth or several, you’ve probably heard that dental implants are the gold standard for replacement. But what exactly are they made of, and why does that matter?
A dental implant isn’t just a “fake tooth.” It’s a carefully engineered system designed to replace the entire tooth structure, from root to crown. Understanding the three main components can help you feel more confident about treatment and recognize why choosing the right provider matters.
At Chapel Hill Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, we break down every step of the implant process so you know exactly what to expect and why we recommend the approach we do. We provide dental implant treatment in Chapel Hill, NC, to restore missing permanent teeth.
The Three Components of a Dental Implant
Every dental implant system consists of three essential parts: the anchor (implant post), the abutment, and the restoration (crown, bridge, or denture). Each plays a specific role in creating a stable, long-lasting tooth replacement.
1. The Anchor (Implant Post)
The anchor is the foundation. It’s a small titanium post shaped like a screw that is surgically placed into your jawbone.
The anchor replaces the root of your missing tooth. Over the course of several months, your jawbone grows around it in a process called osseointegration, creating a permanent, rock-solid bond.
Titanium is biocompatible and integrates well with bone, resulting in a documented success rate above 97%. Dr. Furgurson uses only high-quality materials from proven implant manufacturers.
How many anchors do you need? A single missing tooth needs one implant post. Multiple missing teeth may require two or more posts. A full arch restoration (upper or lower) typically uses four to six posts.
2. The Abutment
The abutment is a small connector piece that attaches to the top of the anchor. It extends through the gums and serves as the foundation for your new tooth.
The abutment connects the implant post to the visible tooth (crown) or teeth (bridge or denture). It ensures a secure, stable fit so your restoration won’t slip or shift.
The abutment is typically placed after the implant has fully fused with your jawbone. In some cases, it can be placed at the same time as the implant. Dr. Furgurson coordinates the timing based on what’s best for your healing and final result.
3. The Restoration (Crown, Bridge, or Denture)
The restoration is the part you see and use every day. It replaces the visible portion of your missing tooth or teeth.
The restoration restores your ability to chew, speak, and smile confidently. It’s custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your surrounding teeth.
Types of restorations:
- Single natural-looking crown: Replaces one missing tooth.
- Implant-supported bridge: Replaces multiple consecutive missing teeth.
- Implant-supported denture: Replaces a full arch (or both arches) of missing teeth.
Most restorations are made from high-quality porcelain or ceramic, which mimics the translucency and strength of natural tooth enamel.
Why This Matters for Chapel Hill Patients
It’s about more than who places the components!
Dr. James Furgurson is a Fellow of the International Congress of Oral Implantologists (FICOI). It’s a designation that requires advanced training, a written exam, and demonstration of at least 20 completed implant cases. He also holds a Fellowship with the Academy of General Dentistry (FAGD) and serves on the faculty of the Clinical Mastery Series. That means he doesn’t just place implants, he teaches other dentists how to do it.
This means your implant is placed by someone with deep expertise who can also design your final restoration to look natural and function comfortably. Many offices split the work between a surgeon and a separate dentist. At our Chapel Hill office, Dr. Furgurson and Dr. White coordinate your entire care in one location.
Serving the Triangle Region
Our office is located at 501 Eastowne Dr STE 150, Chapel Hill, NC 27514. Just off I-40 near Durham-Chapel Hill Boulevard and the Streets at Southpoint. We serve patients from Chapel Hill, Durham, Cary, and across the Triangle region. Whether you’re a UNC faculty member, a Durham professional, or a retiree in the area, you’re welcome here.
Call 919-736-6175 or request an appointment online. We’ll walk you through every component of the implant process and show you why Chapel Hill Family & Cosmetic Dentistry is the trusted choice for dental implants.