If you are ready to start your journey to a complete smile with dental implants, you’ll need a consultation with your dentist. During your appointment, they may use a lot of terms that can seem like a foreign language. You can ensure you know exactly what your dentist is talking about with this guide to the most common dental implant terms you should know.
Abutment
An abutment is a special fixture that’s attached to your implant post. It’s a connector piece between your implant and your restoration. It is attached after your jaw has healed from your placement surgery.
Bone Grafting
Bone grafting is a procedure that’s often used with dental implants. It’s necessary when a patient has experienced bone loss in their jaw. Your jaw must have sufficient bone density to support dental implants. Bone grafting enhances the thickness of your jaw to ensure it can support your implant posts.
CT Scan
Your dentist will take a CT scan of your oral structures for diagnostic purposes and treatment planning. The images allow them to see every detail of your oral anatomy. They can detect any concerns before your placement surgery, like an infection or bone loss. The scans work along with computer-guided technology for your placement surgery. It allows your dentist to insert your posts with pinpoint accuracy.
Dental Implant
A dental implant is a titanium post that’s surgically placed into your jaw to serve as a new root. It will provide unmatched support and stability for your customized restoration.
Osseointegration
Osseointegration is a process that must occur for your procedure to be successful. Your implant post will stimulate new bone growth, allowing your jaw to fuse with the implant. This allows your implant to potentially remain in place forever with the correct care, like brushing and flossing.
Restoration
Your restoration will be your new tooth. If you’re only replacing a single tooth, you’ll require a dental crown. Several lost teeth in a row will be treated with an implant-supported bridge. An entire arch of lost teeth can be replaced with an implant denture.
Sinus Lift
A sinus lift can be needed when replacing teeth in the upper arch. If you’ve experienced bone loss, there may not be enough room to place implants without them protruding until the maxillary sinus cavities. A sinus lift raises your sinuses and a bone graft holds them in place.
If you hear any unfamiliar terms during your consultation, don’t hesitate to ask your dentist for clarification. They’ll give you the information you need to make an educated decision for your tooth replacement needs.
About Dr. Andrew Tadros
Dr. Tadros achieved his dental degree at the University of the Pacific Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry and has continued his training in dental implants and many other advanced procedures. He is a proud member of the American Dental Association and the Texas Dental Association. If you’re interested in dental implants, book an appointment online or call his office at (469) 444-2123.