6 Dental Implant Terms and Meanings You Should Know

Dental implants are the best tooth replacement option out there. They are the only solution that replaces the roots of the missing teeth, allowing for a wide range of additional benefits, like stability, comfort, and longevity. If you are contemplating replacing your missing teeth with dental implants, there are some terms that you should know about. Here are some words you will hear in the process of getting dental implants.

Abutment

This is the piece that connects your restoration to your dental implant. This helps to ensure that your dental crown, bridge, or denture stays perfectly in place. You don’t have to worry about slipping, clicking, or other negative side effects that you experience will ill-fitting dentures.

Ceramic

This material is commonly used to create replacement teeth. Ceramic is made from a type of clay that is hardened by heat. It is an ideal option to create artificial teeth thanks to its durability and natural appearance.

Crown

A dental crown is typically placed on a damaged tooth or the adjacent teeth of a missing tooth or a dental bridge. However, when you get a dental implant, a dental crown is attached to the dental implant via the abutment. This keeps it grounded and secure.

Implant Dentures

Dentures are the tried and tested way of addressing tooth loss. Implant dentures have become popular in recent years because they bring some of the greatest benefits of both dentures and dental implants together in one restoration. Instead of being held in place by the shape and suction of the mouth, implant dentures are supported by dental implants. This allows patients with more extensive tooth loss to experience unmatched longevity and stability.

Osseointegration

The term comes for the Greek and Latin words that mean “bone” and “to make whole.” Osseointegration is the fusion process in which the titanium implant becomes one with the jawbone. Osseointegration strengthens the bone and supports the dental implants.

Titanium

In most cases, dental implants are crafted from titanium. This type of metal offers various advantages. For example, allergies to titanium are very uncommon, so patients are more likely to have a successful outcome. Titanium is also lightweight, strong, and biocompatible. This allows for stronger results that can last for many decades!

By becoming familiar with these terms and their meanings, you will be able to better understand the process taking place.

About the Author

Dr. Mark Gaches earned his dental doctorate from the University of Southern California. Since then, he has remained committed to continuing education and received a Fellowship in the Academy of General Dentistry. He is also a proud member of other professional organizations, including the American Dental Association and the American Academy of Implant Dentistry. To learn more about dental implants or to schedule a consultation at his office in Owasso, visit his website or call (918) 928-2383.