School’s back in session- dental implant school, that is! If you’re planning on restoring your smile with these durable, lifelike prosthetics, you’ll probably hear some new terms when speaking with your dentist. Here’s a few that you should familiarize yourself with and what they mean, so you’ll never be left wondering what’s going on with your treatment and your gorgeous grin will always make the grade!
Abutment
The abutment is an important part of your dental implant- it’s the part that connects the prosthetic tooth or teeth to the implant itself, so you can enjoy a full diet without fear of your restoration coming loose, looking fake, or causing discomfort.
Bridge
A dental implant bridge is like a traditional dental bridge in that it is essentially a bunch of teeth stuck together in a row, much like they would appear naturally in your smile. However, instead of your restoration securing in place over reshaped, healthy teeth, it is attached to one or more dental implants that are surgically inserted into your jaw.
Crown
A crown is a single-tooth restoration that attaches to a single dental implant post. Crowns are ideal for patients who are only missing one or a few teeth that aren’t consecutive.
Denture
An implant denture can replace an entire arch of teeth at once, just like traditional prosthetics. However, unlike their removable predecessors, many varieties of these restorations can only be removed by a dentist, providing a more realistic appearance and secure hold.
Endosteal Implant
Endosteal implants are the most common type of dental implant, and are held in place with several screws, cylinders, blades, or plates that are designed to support at least one dental crown.
Eposteal Implant
Eposteal implants are a safer alternative for patients with poor jawbone density or those who are at an increased risk of bone resorption. However, unlike traditional dental implants, they sit directly atop the jawbone instead of inside it.
Osseointegration
The word osteointegration comes from the Greek and Latin words for “bone” and “to make whole,” and is the term used to describe the physical process of your jawbone healing around your dental implant. This crucial period is essential for your prosthetic’s success and begins the moment your it is surgically implanted in your jaw, ending when the bone has fully healed. Typically, this ranges anywhere from three to nine months post-op.
Subperiosteal Implant
Subperiosteal implants are used when the patient doesn’t have sufficient bone height for traditional implant dentures. These prosthetics sit on top of the jaw and partially protrude through the gum tissue, allowing you to keep your implants in place securely.
Titanium
Titanium is the most common dental implant material. It was chosen for its durability, low risk of allergic reactions, and light weight and has since its inception had an excellent track record for safety and security.
Zirconia
Zirconia is a white porcelain implant that is used for patients with metal sensitivity and those who want a more aesthetically ideal treatment. Zirconia is just as durable and lightweight as titanium, but it also has the benefit of being more discreet!
Remember, getting dental implants isn’t just a way to improve your smile, it’s also a way to boost your confidence, expand your diet, simplify your life, and even increase your vocabulary! To learn more about these incredible prosthetics and see how they can help create a new definition for your gorgeous grin, schedule a consultation with your dentist for dental implants today!
About Dr. Ismail
Dr. Affaf Ismail earned her Doctor of Dental Surgery degree from the University of Michigan School of Dentistry. Today, in addition to being highly regarded as a skilled and caring dentist, she is also an adjunct faculty member at Midwestern University College of Dental Medicine with a passion for lifelong learning. To schedule a consultation for dental implants at Encinitas Dental Art, visit our website or call 760-678-0864.