Dental implants are a multi-faceted treatment that can provide reliable and long-lasting tooth replacement. However, the process can be complex, and you might hear or see some terms that you are unfamiliar with. This blog post aims to help you out. Below, you will find definitions for some of the most common terms that could come up during discussions with your dentist.
Parts of Your Implant
- Dental implant: In the strictest sense, a dental implant is a prosthetic tooth root, the titanium post that gets inserted into your jawbone and supports your new teeth. However, depending on the context, “dental implant” might refer to both the prosthetic tooth root and the artificial teeth attached to it.
- Abutment: Abutments are small connector pieces that help secure artificial teeth to the implants that support them.
- Restoration: A dental implant restoration is a crown, bridge, or denture that gets attached to dental implants. Restorations can be made of various materials, but porcelain is one of the most common choices due to its durability, strength, and pleasing appearance.
- Titanium: Most dental implants are made of medical-grade titanium alloy. This metal tends to work well within the human body and has an impressive track record of success.
Procedural Terms
- Osseointegration: This is the biological process that occurs after an implant is placed in your jawbone. Essentially, the bone bonds with the implant so it can provide a sturdy base for your new teeth.
- All-on-4: This is a special type of implant treatment designed for patients who need to replace a full arch of missing teeth. It uses only four implant posts, and they can support a temporary denture right away. All-on-4 is often faster and less invasive than traditional dental implants.
- Bone graft: If your jawbone is not able to support dental implants, your care team may have to graft natural or artificial bone material onto your jaw. Sinus lifts and ridge augmentation are special types of bone grafts. A sinus lift is for the upper jaw and prevents implants from puncturing your sinus membrane, while ridge augmentation widens the jawbone to accommodate implants.
- Peri-implantitis: This is a form of gum disease and the most common cause of dental implant failure. Your care team will coach you on how to prevent it.
Talk to Your Dentist to Learn More
Of course, the above-listed terms are only a handful of words and phrases that might be part of your dental implant journey. If you come across any others that you are unfamiliar with, do not hesitate to ask your dentist for an explanation. They want you to feel well-informed about your treatment!
Meet the Practice
At Family Dental Practice of Newington, we are pleased to offer start-to-finish dental implant services in a welcoming, modern environment. We are always happy to talk with patients to help them understand any treatment that we recommend. To learn more about us or to request a consultation, get in touch with our office at 860-856-6201.