Many experts consider dental implants the ideal way to rebuild smiles after tooth loss because of their many unique advantages. Unlike dentures or bridges, these replacement teeth are placed directly in your jaw and eventually fuse with the bone, making them stronger and longer-lasting than the alternatives.
But you’re not alone if you’re struggling to understand the vocabulary your dentist uses when discussing this popular treatment. Continue reading to become more familiar with several new words or phrases you might hear regarding dental implants!
Dental Implant Glossary of Terms
Below is a list of important terms your oral healthcare provider might use when discussing dental implants. Reading through this helpful glossary can help you better understand what your provider means so you can make a more well-informed decision when rebuilding your smile.
- Abutment. The post of your restoration requires a connector piece, or abutment, that is placed on top of it and then is used to anchor your restoration to close the gap in your grin.
- Bridge. A dental bridge is an oral appliance containing the necessary number of replacement teeth between a dental crown on each end, which are positioned over implants on both sides of a wider space in your smile to close the gap.
- Crown. Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps, typically made from resilient ceramic, that can be cemented over an implant post and abutment to replace a single missing tooth. They are customized to resemble your natural enamel for lifelike results that boost your confidence.
- Dentures. Anywhere from 4 to 8 rods can be strategically placed in your jaw to anchor a specially designed set of dentures, providing a more permanent solution for tooth loss.
- Implant. The dental implant itself often refers to the support post, sometimes called a ‘fixture’ or ‘screw’, that’s placed in your jaw. After it merges with the bone material, it’s firmly placed and functions like the root of a tooth to activate your jawbone each time you bite down to keep it active and healthy.
- Osseointegration. This is the process in which your mouth slowly generates enough new bone growth to completely envelop your restoration and fuse with it. It often takes about 3 to 6 months to complete, and it is essential for this treatment to be successful.
- Titanium. This lightweight metal is often the default material to build dental implants because it’s strong enough to withstand the pressure of daily biting and chewing, but resists corrosion and is biocompatible, meaning it’s unlikely to cause metal allergies or trigger sensitivity.
- Zirconia. Some dentists offer implants made from this resilient, tooth-colored ceramic to avoid potential complications, like metal allergies, for certain patients.
Knowing these key terms can help you have a more involved discussion about dental implants with your dentist, but if you still have unanswered questions, most are happy to share as much information as needed for you to feel comfortable and confident moving forward.
About the Practice
At Jacksonville Dental Excellence, patients benefit from a husband-and-wife dental duo who are passionate about helping them build and maintain the healthiest, most beautiful versions of their smiles. Drs. Ryan and Rose Johnson collaborate to offer a comprehensive menu of services, including implant placement and restoration, to meet even the most unique needs under one roof. Their caring approach is combined with advanced technology to deliver accurate, comfortable outcomes intended to last. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (904) 895-4536.