At this point, maybe you’ve decided to get dental implants. That’s great news – the little objects will restore your grin and improve your looks! Still, you’d do well to learn more about them first. Doing so ensures you know what to expect from treatment. (Otherwise, you might not get the results you want.) To help out, your Garland dentist will even share some details. Read on to learn four dental implant terms you should know before surgery.
Osseointegration
To explain how your implants will work, a dentist may use the odd term “osseointegration.” This word refers to a key process that ensures treatment success.
Simply put, osseointegration is a slow fusion of your implants with your jaw. The term comes from Greek and Latin words meaning “bone” and “to make whole.” As such, it describes how bone tissue slowly grows around newly placed implants. This growth helps to keep your new teeth secure and stable.
Abutment
To be honest, a dental implant is simply an alternate tooth root. It can’t hold the visible part of your new pearly white. Instead, only an abutment can do that.
An abutment is a metal connector set on top of your implant. Once placed, it acts as an attachment for the visible portion (usually a crown). The former thus keeps the latter in place, helping the new chomper work properly.
Dental Bone Graft
If your jaw is weak, a dentist may suggest a “dental bone graft” before implant work. This three-word phrase points to a unique procedure.
In essence, a dental bone graft is a surgery for your jaw. It grafts material onto your jawbone, leading to higher density. The result is a jaw that can properly support your future implants. (Some dentists can perform bone grafts on their own, while others refer to outside specialists.)
Peri-Implantitis
Of course, dental implants aren’t without risks. Problems can arise after they’re placed. In fact, your dentist may mention “peri-implantitis” as one such issue.
In short, peri-implantitis is a type of gum disease. It occurs when the tissue near an implant gets infected, usually due to poor oral care. This infection can lead to pain, swelling, and difficulty biting. Left untreated, it’ll likely result in implant failure. You’d then need to spend time and money on another replacement tooth.
Naturally, the phrases above aren’t the only dental implant terms you should know. Talk to your dental provider to find out about the others!
About the Practice
La Prada Family Dentistry is based in Garland, TX. Led by four amazing dentists, our practice seeks to give each patient quality dental care. We thus offer preventive, cosmetic, and restorative work, as well as emergency oral services. Naturally, this range of options also includes dental implants – tooth replacements that restore your smile! For more details on booking a visit, you can reach us on our website or by phone at (214)-473-5696.
