The advent of dental implants has revolutionized modern dentistry, offering patients a reliable and long-lasting solution for missing teeth. However, the realm of dental implants can be daunting, particularly when confronted with an array of technical terms and jargon.
In this blog post, our goal is to demystify the subject by elucidating 31 common terms used in dental implants. By acquainting yourself with these terms, you’ll be better equipped to comprehend discussions with your dentist and make informed decisions concerning your oral health.
Dental Implant: A titanium screw-like post that serves as an artificial tooth root, firmly anchoring a dental prosthesis such as a crown or bridge.
Abutment: The connecting piece that attaches to the implant and supports the dental prosthesis.
Osseointegration: The process by which bone fuses with the implant, providing a stable foundation for the restoration.
Bone Graft: A procedure involving the addition of bone material to the jawbone to augment its volume and density, often necessary when the jawbone has deteriorated.
Immediate Implant: Placement of an implant immediately after tooth extraction, obviating the need for a subsequent surgical procedure.
Crown: Crown is the visible artificial tooth, custom-made to match your natural teeth, and affixed to the implant or abutment.
Bridge: Bridge is a dental restoration that replaces multiple missing teeth, supported by dental implants or natural teeth.
Denture: A removable dental appliance that replaces multiple missing teeth, supported by implants or resting on the gums.
All-on-4/All-on-6: A technique employing only four or six strategically placed implants to support a full arch of teeth.
Subperiosteal Implant: An implant positioned on or above the jawbone, suitable for patients with inadequate bone height.
Endosteal Implant: The most prevalent type of implant, directly placed into the jawbone.
Mini Implant: A smaller-sized implant used when there is insufficient bone volume or for temporary restorations.
Titanium: The biocompatible material utilized for dental implants due to its capacity to fuse with bone.
Zirconia: An alternative to titanium, zirconia implants offer exceptional aesthetics and biocompatibility.
Cone Beam Computed Tomography (CBCT): A 3D imaging technique employed to obtain detailed images of the jawbone, aiding in treatment planning.
Prosthodontist: A dental specialist focusing on the restoration and replacement of teeth, including dental implants.
Periodontist: A dental specialist specialized in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of gum diseases, including implant placement.
Oral Surgeon: A dental specialist trained in surgical procedures, including dental implant placement.
Bone Resorption: The natural process of bone loss that occurs when a tooth is missing, potentially impacting implant placement.
Sinus Lift: A surgical procedure that elevates the sinus membrane and incorporates bone graft material to the upper jaw, increasing bone volume for implant placement.
Immediate Loading: The technique of attaching a dental prosthesis to the implant shortly after surgery, bypassing a healing period.
Healing Abutment: A temporary abutment emerging through the gum, allowing proper tissue healing before attaching the final prosthesis.
Peri-implantitis: An inflammatory condition affecting the tissues surrounding dental implants, often caused by poor oral hygiene.
Biocompatibility: The property of a material to integrate with the body without eliciting an immune response or rejection.
Overdenture: A removable denture fitting over dental implants, offering superior stability and retention compared to traditional dentures.
Gingiva: The gum tissue encircling the teeth and implants.
Osteoporosis: A medical condition characterized by weakened bones, potentially impacting the success of dental implants.
Titanium Plasma Spraying (TPS): A surface treatment technique utilized to enhance the bond between the implant and bone.
Impression: A mold of your teeth and surrounding tissues used to create a custom-fitted dental prosthesis.
Occlusion: The manner in which your upper and lower teeth come together when you bite.
Informed Consent: The process of providing patients with comprehensive information regarding a treatment or procedure, enabling them to make educated decisions.
Implant Fixture: The implant fixture serves as the foundation for the entire prosthetic structure, and its technical intricacies significantly impact the long-term success of the implant.
Conclusion:
Comprehending the terminology associated with dental implants is vital for patients contemplating this transformative dental treatment. By acquainting yourself with these 31 key terms, you can effectively communicate with your dentist, pose informed questions, and actively participate in decisions concerning your oral health. Remember, your dental professional is your trusted ally throughout the dental implant journey, so do not hesitate to seek their guidance and clarification regarding any unfamiliar terms. Together, you can achieve a healthy, radiant smile that will endure for years to come.
