Losing a tooth doesn’t mean that you need to go on without it. There are several different tooth replacement options out there to restore your smile and fill in any empty gaps that you have. Dental implants are often preferred because of their numerous benefits, but there are so many unfamiliar terms associated with them. Continue reading to learn the meaning of some dental implant terms so you can stay informed throughout the implant process.
Abutment
This is the connecter that’s attached to the top of the dental implant. It serves as the attachment for the replacement tooth. It also helps to guarantee that the new replacement tooth stays firmly in its place. The abutment tooth is a crowned tooth that supports and stabilizes a bridge or partial denture.
Ceramic
This is one of the materials that is often used to create the replacement teeth that are placed on the end of dental implants. It is made from a type of clay and then hardened by heat.
Crown
A crown, or cap, is used to replace a single tooth that has been damaged, broken, or missing. They typically fit over an existing tooth. However, in the case of dental implants, they are attached to the abutment to become perfectly grounded.
Dentures
This is a traditional tooth replacement option that you are likely familiar with. However, there are several different types of dentures available, like implant dentures. Instead of being held in by the natural suction of your mouth, they are supported by dental implants. This allows for more longevity and stability than traditional dentures.
Endosteal Implant
This is the most common type of dental implant used. In this case, a dentist will place the implant into the jawbone via a surgical procedure. Every implant holds at least one replacement tooth.
Eposteal Implant
Instead of being placed into the jawbone, eposteal implants are supported by resting on the jawbone. This isn’t a very common option anymore, but this type of implant still may be suggested if a patient is at high risk of advanced bone resorption.
Osseointegration
This is the biological process where a dental implant fuses with the jawbone. This improves the strength of both the jawbone and the dental implant.
With the knowledge of these dental implant terms, you will be able to better understand how your procedure will take place. You’ll be showing off your smile with pride in no time!
About the Author
Dr. James A. Moreau Jr. is an experience dentist who has been working in the field for over 40 years. He earned his dental doctorate from the Louisiana State University School of Dentistry and is a proud Diplomate of the American Board of Dental Sleep Medicine and a Fellow of the Academy of General Dentistry. He is also eligible for a Fellowship with the International College of Cranio-Mandibular Orthopedics and a current member of the American Dental Association and Louisiana Dental Association. For more information on dental implants or to schedule a consultation at his office in Covington, visit his website or call (985) 809-7645.