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Tooth loss can have serious effects on your oral health, self-esteem, and overall quality of life. Fortunately, dental implants are able to replace the entirety of missing teeth, providing benefits that you can’t find with other tooth replacement options, like dental bridges and dentures. If you’re looking to replace your missing teeth with dental implants, it pays to be well-informed. Here are some common dental implant terms that you should be aware of.
Abutment
This is the piece that connects your replacement tooth to the dental implant. This helps to ensure that your dental crown, bridge, or dentures stay perfectly anchored in place. You don’t need to worry about slipping, sliding, clicking, or other negative side effects of ill-fitting teeth.
Ceramic
This material is commonly used to make replacement teeth. Ceramic is made from a type of clay and then hardened by heat. It is an ideal option to create artificial teeth thanks to its durability and natural appearance.
Implant Dental Crown
A dental crown is usually placed on a damaged tooth or the adjacent teeth of a missing tooth for a dental bridge. However, in the case of dental implants, a dental crown is attached to the abutment to become grounded and secure.
Implant Dentures
Dentures are an incredibly common tooth replacement option that you are likely familiar with. However, did you know that there are multiple different types of dentures? Instead of being held in by the shape and suction of your mouth, implant dentures are supported by dental implants. This allows patients with significant tooth loss to experience unmatched longevity and stability!
Osseointegration
This term comes from the Greek and Latin words that mean “bone” and “to make whole.” Osseointegration is the fusion process that takes place between the jawbone and the dental implant. Osseointegration strengthens the bone and supports the dental implants.
Titanium
The majority of dental implants are made from titanium. This type of metal offers several different advantages. For example, allergies to titanium as extremely rare, so patients are more likely to have a positive outcome. Titanium is also lightweight, strong, and has the ability to bond with the bone, producing a stronger result that can last for many decades or even the rest of your life.
Bone Graft
A bone graft is a surgical procedure where bone is transplanted to repair and rebuild damaged bone. In many cases, patients who have lost teeth have also experienced bone loss in their jaw. In order to properly support dental implants, it is crucial that the jawbone is sufficient enough. That’s why it isn’t uncommon for patients to need bone grafting before they can move forward in the dental implant process.
By becoming familiar with these terms and their meanings, you will be able to better understand the process taking place when you get your new smile!
About the Author
Dr. Angelo M. Julovich is an experienced dentist who has been working in the field for several decades. He earned his dental doctorate at the Indiana University School of Dentistry and is committed to continuing education to keep his knowledge and skills sharp. He is currently a member of the American Dental Association, Chicago Dental Society, and Indiana Dental Association. To learn more about dental implants or to schedule a consultation at his office in Zionsville, visit his website or call (317) 769-3335.