Don’t you hate it when someone uses a lot of technical terms you don’t know? How are you supposed to follow a conversation when they include so much jargon? Unfortunately, sometimes not knowing the clinical lingo can stand between you and the treatment you want. To prevent this from happening at the dentist’s office when replacing teeth, here are many basic terms you need to know about dental implants to fully understand.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are generally deemed the “golden standard” for fixing missing teeth because they go beyond sitting on the gums. They also address the missing roots, providing complete tooth replacement. With that comes many benefits you can’t get with other options like a stronger bite, a longer lifespan, no shrinkage in facial structure, and more self-confidence.
Reasons for Dental Implants
Jawbone Deterioration or Shrinkage
This term is actually self-explanatory in the name, but you may not realize it happens after tooth loss. The roots of your teeth constantly stimulate the jawbone, sending nutrients and bite strength to it, and those nutrients stop coming when roots leave. Unlike dentures or bridges, dental implants are the only replacements that fill in for the root structure, restoring jawbone stimulation and bite force.
Parts of Dental Implants
Abutment
This is the middle piece of the overall prosthetic tooth. It connects the post to the restoration on top. This term is also used as a step in the implant process itself, describing the moment when this piece is attached to the integrated posts, right before restoration.
Post
The post is the first titanium piece that is surgically inserted into the jawbone. It is typically formed to look like a screw and promotes new jawbone growth, which surrounds the post. This part of the implant gives the restored tooth or teeth stability and strength.
Restoration
While the post and abutment of your implants remain unseen, your restoration—whether it is a single crown, bridge, partial denture, or full denture—is held firmly in place by the other parts and are fabricated to look as realistic as possible.
Process of Getting Dental Implants
Consultation
Just as you’d schedule a consultation before undergoing other types of surgery or treatment, a consultation is necessary before getting dental implants. This appointment may seem simple, but it allows your dentist to examine you, plan the procedure precisely, and answer any questions you may have about payment, the process, and more.
Placement Surgery
This minor surgical procedure involves making a small incision in the gums and physically inserting the post into the jawbone before closing the gums back up with sutures.
Osseointegration
Don’t be afraid of this clinical term; it simply refers to the three- to six-month period after the placement surgery needed for your jawbone to grow and envelop the post. Osseo– means to bone, and integration means to join with something.
As one of the most complex dental procedures, implants come with some terms you might not know. Hopefully, this introductory guide can help, but if there’s anything you don’t understand, don’t hesitate to ask your dentist when you meet with them. They want to make sure you fully grasp the concepts of your treatment, reasons for their recommendation, and how this option can benefit you and your smile for decades to come!
About the Author
Throughout his career, Dr. Joseph Salvaggio has primarily focused his continuing education on dental implants and cosmetic dentistry. He has even studied with prestigious organizations like Kois Dental Education Centre and completed a year-long residency program with the Sunnybrook Hospital. Dr. Salvaggio loves helping patients understand their tooth replacement options and explaining any confusing terms. To schedule an initial consultation with him or the other dentists at Salvaggio Dentistry, contact our Brampton practice online or call our office at 289-569-0721.