When it comes to replacing missing teeth, dental implants are often considered the gold standard since they’re capable of restoring lost pearly whites in terms of look, feel, and functionality. That said, if you’re considering rebuilding your smile with this incredible option, you may have questions – after all, these restorations include various parts, a lengthier treatment process, and other aspects you might be unfamiliar with. To address your concerns, here’s a breakdown of some of the most common dental implant terms you’ll likely hear talked about.
1. “Abutment”
An abutment is a special connector piece that is placed on top of the implant post once it’s successfully fused with the jaw tissue, during a small secondary procedure. It serves as the base for the replacement tooth, crown, or bridge, keeping it firmly in place and allowing it to benefit from the sturdy foundation provided by the post(s).
2. “Osseointegration”
The word “osseointegration” comes from Greek and Latin words that mean “bone” and “to make whole,” which perfectly describe it. This biological process refers to the fusion between dental implant posts and jawbone tissue. The dental implant posts are made from biocompatible materials, such as titanium or zirconia, to ensure they’re able to combine healthily with the bone matter over the course of several months. This process is the single most important factor when it comes to the long-term success of dental implant restorations.
3. “Bone Graft”
A bone graft is a special type of procedure that’s sometimes completed before the actual dental implant surgery if the patient’s jawbone doesn’t have enough density to support the implants. It involves placing grafted bone tissue, either from a donor source or somewhere else in the mouth, in areas where the dental implants need to be placed. While it can add a few months to the dental implant timeline, it ensures their successful fusion with the jaw, which is crucial for long-term results.
4. “Peri-Implantitis”
Even though your dental implants themselves are immune to cavities, they are threatened by other oral health conditions – and the one that poses the biggest threat is peri-implantitis. This condition usually occurs due to poor oral hygiene, and it involves the soft tissue surrounding the implants becoming infected. This can lead to it breaking down and causing your implant posts to loosen and potentially fall out. Needless to say, it’s a condition you’ll need to avoid if you’re committing to dental implants, and routine oral hygiene is the secret to doing so.
By going into the dental implant process well-informed, you’re setting your smile up for lasting health and success, as well as alleviating any anxiety you may have about the procedure.
About the Practice
Our team here at Miles of Smiles has proudly served the dental needs of patients and families in the Londonderry, NH community for several years, offering a wide range of services including restorative options like dental implants. If you have any questions about the blog or you’d like to get in touch with us to set up a dental implant consultation, please reach out online or by phone for more information. Telephone: (603) 437-8204.