6 Dental Implant Terms That You Should Be Aware Of!

Dental implants are the best tooth replacement option available today! They work by replacing the roots of the missing teeth, allowing for a wide range of benefits that you can’t achieve with dentures or dental bridges. If you are thinking about replacing your missing teeth with dental implants, it pays to be well-informed. Here are some terms that you should familiarize yourself with as you prepare to begin the treatment process.

Abutment

This is the connector piece that secures your restoration to your dental implant. It helps to ensure that your dental crown, bridge, or denture stays firmly in place. This way, you don’t have to worry about your replacement teeth shifting around, clicking, or being otherwise uncomfortable.

Ceramic

Ceramic is a material that is commonly used to create dental implant restorations. It is made from a type of clay that is hardened with heat. It is an ideal option to create artificial teeth thanks to their durability and natural appearance.

Dental Crown

A dental crown is generally placed over a damaged tooth or the adjacent teeth of a missing tooth for a dental bridge. In the case of dental implants, a dental crown can be attached to a single dental implant via the abutment. This keeps it stable and secure.

Implant Dentures

Dentures are the tried and tested way to address tooth loss. Implant dentures have become popular in recent years because they bring some of the greatest benefits of dentures and dental implants to a single 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 who have more extensive tooth loss enjoy a more stable and long-lasting tooth replacement option.

Osseointegration

This term comes from 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, making your dental implants even more resilient.

Titanium

Most of the time, dental implants are made from titanium. This type of metal offers many benefits. For example, allergies to titanium and very rare, so patients are more likely to have a successful outcome. Titanium is lightweight, strong, and biocompatible. This allows for strong results that last for many decades.

Becoming familiar with these terms can help you to become more prepared for your treatment. You will be showing off a complete smile in just a matter of time!

About the Author

Dr. Shandy Condie earned her dental doctorate from the Creighton School of Dentistry. Since then, she has trained at the prestigious Las Vegas Institute for Advanced Dental Studies. Currently, she is a proud member of the American Dental Association and the Arizona Dental Association. To learn more about dental implants or to schedule an appointment, visit her website or call (480) 780-9080.