Dental implants have allowed millions of people to replace their lost teeth with lifelike, comfortable, and functional restorations, and they offer a range of oral and overall health benefits like keeping the jawbone strong and preventing further dental damage. However, many patients may not readily understand some of the terminology used to discuss these advanced prosthetic appliances. Here’s a brief guide to some common dental implant terminology.
What’s an Abutment?
A dental implant consists of a titanium post, a dental restoration, and an abutment piece that connects the two together. After the titanium post is surgically inserted into your jawbone and fused with its surrounding bone tissue over several months, you’ll come back to your oral surgeon’s office for a minor surgical procedure that attaches the abutment piece on top of it. After you’ve healed and your permanent restoration has been manufactured, you’ll come back to the office again to have your new tooth or teeth placed and receive any final adjustments.
What Are Restorations?
Dental implants replace missing teeth by providing a sturdy foundation for high-quality restorations like:
- Dental crowns: A dental crown is a tooth-shaped piece that is mounted on a dental implant to replace a single pearly white. These appliances are also used to restore the strength and function of teeth compromised by decay or injury.
- Dental bridges: These appliances consist of two or more artificial teeth strung together and can be mounted on implants to replace several sequential missing teeth.
- Dentures: A full denture can replace an entire arch of lost teeth.
Anchoring these restorations with dental implants allows them to last much longer and exert more chewing power while preventing them from uncomfortably sliding about in the mouth.
What Is Osseointegration?
Titanium is frequently used in prosthetic medicine because of its remarkable ability to fuse with natural bone structure. This natural process called osseointegration allows implants to function like real teeth, preserve the health of the jaw, and last for as long as possible. After a dental implant is surgically placed, it will bond with the surrounding bone tissue in the jaw over the course of several months, resulting in a strong and durable hold that can last for a lifetime if it receives proper care.
Dental implants offer a range of remarkable health benefits and can significantly bolster your confidence after tooth loss. Consulting with your dentist can help you find the best way to replace your missing teeth.
About the Author
Dr. Brent Whittaker earned his dental degree at the Ohio State University College of Dentistry and participates in continuing education courses to keep his skills sharp and his knowledge current. He is proud to be a member of the American Dental Association, the Ohio Dental Association, and the Academy of General Dentistry. His office in Marion offers general, restorative, emergency, and cosmetic dentistry as well as dental implant services. If you’d like to schedule your dental implant consultation, contact his office online or dial (740) 725-8000.