You may have been looking into dental implants in Lawrenceville for some time, only to find some of the terms used in the material confusing. In this post, we’d like to explain what some of the more common phrases mean, giving you the information you need to learn more about this exciting approach to smile restoration. Use this information along with your dentist’s guidance to make informed decisions about your dental care options.
A Quick Glossary of Dental Implant Terms
Some of the more common dental implant terms include the following:
- Implant: this refers to a small, lightweight titanium fixture that’s embedded beneath the gum line by the implant dentist. It serves the same purpose as the roots of a healthy natural tooth. It’s also the foundation for the final restoration.
- Titanium: this is the type of metal used for most implants. It’s the same material used to make airplane wings, so you know it’s immensely strong. Yet it’s also incredibly lightweight.
- Zirconia: this is sometimes used as an alternative to titanium. It’s used for people who are allergic to titanium.
- Abutment: this is a small lightweight titanium connector that joins the implant itself to the final restoration. It can be used to support a crown, bridge, or individual restored tooth.
- Osseointegration: this refers to the natural process by which the implant fuses with the bones beneath the recipient’s gum line. Osseointegration is what makes implants an effective alternative to older methods of tooth restoration, such as adhesive dentures.
- Implant-supported dentures: these are a hybrid approach to restoration in which a denture plate is supported by 4-6 implants placed across the upper or lower jaw. Unlike traditional dentures, this approach to restoration can never come loose on its own. It can last 20 years or longer with basic care.
- Implant crown: a healthy natural tooth consists of two parts: the crown, or visible portion, and the root, which is the part of the tooth beneath the gum line. An implant crown is an artfully crafted artificial tooth made from medical-grade ceramics. It’s created to precisely match your oral profile. The results are both beautiful and resilient.
- Mini-implants: Sometimes the patient’s underlying bone structure will not support a conventional implant. In such cases, an implant dentist may recommend a pair of smaller implants side by side. These are referred to as mini-implants.
- All on 4/All on 6: you may have heard either or both of these terms used at times. They refer to the number of implants used to support a multi-tooth restoration on the same arch (row of teeth).
That’s a breakdown of the most common terms used when discussing dental implants. Your implant dentist can give you more information during your upcoming appointment. Make a list of any questions or concerns you may have in the meantime. Knowing how the dental care process works not only makes you a more empowered patient, it’s also a great way to lay the foundation for a happier, healthier future. Many happy smiles to you and yours.
About the Author
Dr. Bruce E. Carter has been practicing dentistry for more than 30 years. He’s a highly skilled implant dentist who focuses on cosmetic and restorative care. You can reach his office online or by calling (770) 995-7616.