Dental experts everywhere agree that when it comes to dental implants, they’re practically the next best thing to your natural teeth. They look, feel, and function just like your original pearly whites, and they have the potential to last for life if you take care of them. However, if you’re scheduled to receive dental implants, it’s wise to head into the process with as much knowledge and insight as possible, as it’ll set your new smile up for resounding success. Here are a few of the key terms you may hear your dentist use as they plan out your treatment.
Implant Post
A dental implant itself is a small, biocompatible post in the shape of a screw that acts as a replacement tooth root once it’s been surgically placed into the jaw. They’re often made from titanium, since it can safely fuse with bone tissue, but sometimes ceramic or zirconia can be used.
Osseointegration
This is perhaps the most important part of the whole dental implant process. It refers to the fusion that occurs between your implant posts and your jawbone following your surgery. It’ll take several months to complete, but it ultimately ensures that your new smile will last for life.
Crown
A crown is a type of restoration that can be used to replace a single tooth with the help of a dental implant; it’s placed on top of the post. Crowns are made to look and feel just like your original teeth. If multiple teeth are being replaced, instead of a crown, a bridge or dentures can be used.
Abutment
An abutment is a connector piece that is placed on top of your dental implant after it’s fused with your jaw. Its job is simple but important: it attaches your custom-made dental restoration to your implant post and ensures that it remains stable and firmly in place.
Bone Graft
Sometimes, a patient doesn’t have the necessary jawbone density to support a dental implant, and a bone graft is needed. This preliminary procedure takes borrowed bone and reinforces areas of the jaw that need implants, though it does add several months to the treatment timeline.
The last thing you want to feel is confusion when heading into the dental implant process, but by knowing exactly what your dentist is talking about as they walk you through the process, you can rest easily and fully commit to your new smile!
About the Practice
Under the leadership of Dr. Douglas J. Gammenthaler, our team here at Family Dental Care of Rogers serves the dental needs of patients and families in Rogers and the nearby communities. We offer a wide range of dental services, including restorative solutions such as dental implants, all under one roof. If you have any questions about the blog or you need to schedule an appointment for yourself or a loved one, please contact us online or call today for more information. Telephone: (479) 888-5362.