Abutment + Healing Screw

In the context of dentistry and dental implants, an “abutment” and a “healing screw” are components used in the process of implant placement and restoration.

1. Abutment: An abutment is a dental component that connects the dental implant, which is surgically placed in the jawbone, to the dental prosthesis (e.g., crown, bridge, or denture) that replaces the missing tooth or teeth. The abutment serves as a connector, providing stability and support for the replacement tooth or teeth. Abutments come in various shapes, sizes, and materials, and they are selected based on the specific clinical needs of the patient and the design of the prosthesis.

2. Healing Screw: A healing screw, also known as a healing abutment or healing cap, is a temporary component used in the early stages of dental implant treatment. After the implant has been surgically placed in the jawbone, a healing screw is attached to the implant to protect and promote the healing of the surrounding soft tissues. It helps maintain space and shape around the implant site and assists in shaping the gum tissue during the healing period. Once the healing process is complete, the healing screw is replaced with a permanent abutment to which the final prosthesis can be attached.

The use of both an abutment and a healing screw is essential in the successful restoration of dental implants. The healing screw plays a temporary role in ensuring that the implant area heals properly, while the abutment serves as a long-term support structure for the final dental prosthesis, allowing for a functional and esthetic replacement of the missing tooth or teeth. The specific choice of abutment and healing screw can vary based on the patient’s individual treatment plan and the type of implant restoration being performed.