A Guide to Dental Implant Terms You Should Know

Millions of Americans suffer from tooth loss. If you’re a part of that group, you know from experience how much it can affect your quality of life. Fortunately, there’s a way you can enjoy a full smile once again. With dental implants, you can eat, speak, and say cheese with complete confidence once again! At your consultation, your dentist may throw around some confusing words. To help you understand exactly what’s going on, we’ve compiled a list of dental implant terms you should know.

Dental Implant

If you’re getting dental implants, you’ll surely want to know exactly what they are. Well, a dental implant is a medical device that’s surgically inserted into the jaw. During the recovery period, the implant fuses with the surrounding bone tissue via a process called osseointegration. Once fully healed, it can support a crown, bridge, or denture. With proper dental care, your implants can last several years or even a lifetime!

Abutment

An abutment is a connector that your dentist builds onto or attaches to the top of a dental implant. It’s a crucial component that keeps your dental prosthesis (i.e., crown, bridge, denture) firmly in place.

Crown

Have you broken or lost a tooth because of injury, decay, or damage? If so, your dentist will use a dental crown to restore its size, shape, and function. It completely covers an entire tooth, fortifying and replacing the missing structure. A crown, also known as a cap, can be attached to the abutment of an implant and used as a final restoration.

Dentures

Dentures are one of the most traditional solutions for missing teeth. However, most patients do not have the same success with dentures as with dental implants. Since dentures simply rest on the gums, they can slip and slide around more easily. Some types are removable for cleaning and storage, while others can be permanently attached to the mouth (i.e., implant-retained dentures).

Osseointegration

As mentioned earlier, osseointegration is a natural process that allows an implant to fuse with the jawbone. The term comes from Greek and Latin words meaning “bone” and “to make whole”.

Titanium

Most dentists today use dental implants made of titanium because there are several advantages to using the material. For example, very few people are allergic to titanium. It’s also a lightweight but strong material, meaning there’s less weight on your jaw once it’s in place. Lastly, titanium is the only metal that can successfully ossify with the surrounding bone tissue.

Ceramic

Ceramic is another material used to make dental implants. The clay material is hardened by heat before it’s placed in your mouth. Some patients prefer this option because it results in a more natural-looking appearance. It’s also an excellent alternative for those who are allergic to titanium.

Are you ready for your dental implant consultation? With this guide, you’ll be able to better understand the process for a beautiful, fully functioning, restored smile!

About the Practice

At Huntington Beach Periodontics, we offer advanced rehabilitative care. Our team uses the latest technologies, techniques, and materials to give patients the quality treatment they deserve. If you’re interested in getting dental implants, we’ll go above and beyond to ensure your treatment is well-planned and completely successful. To schedule a consultation, visit our website or call (714) 587-9094.