Are you suffering from multiple missing teeth and debating scheduling a consultation with your dentist to discuss getting dental implants in Sacramento? Implants can do wonders for your oral health and save you from having to deal with future problems like jawbone deterioration. You want to talk to your dentist about your options, but you’d like to first familiarize yourself with the procedure so you can decode your dentist’s jargon. Read on to learn 6 terms that will help you better understand dental implants.
Implant
An implant is a titanium fixture that is surgically placed to replace your natural tooth’s root. This is a key component of dental implants and what allows them to offer so many benefits. This device fuses with your jawbone to help promote bone growth. After your implants are placed and your gums have a chance to heal, your replacement tooth or teeth will be placed on top. These offer the restorations a stable and sturdy foundation so you won’t have to deal with slipping and shifting like you would with restorations that aren’t implant-retained.
Abutment
Once your titanium implants have fused with your jaw and your gums are healed, your dentist will place abutments on top. These can be made from titanium, gold, stainless steel, or zirconia. When it comes time to select the material, keep in mind the strength of each and whether your gums may react to it. Typically, abutments are custom-made in a laboratory, and they’re crafted into the ideal shape to fit your restoration.
Crown
A crown is a great restorative option if you’re missing a single tooth. They’re typically made from a combination of materials including metal alloys, ceramics, porcelain, porcelain fused with metal, or composite resins. They’re custom-made to blend in with the rest of your smile in color, size, and shape. Once your crown is made, your dentist will place it atop your implant on the abutment.
Dentures
Another restoration option that can be retained by implants is dentures. When they’re secured to titanium posts, you won’t have to worry about them shifting or slipping. These are a great option if you’re replacing several teeth. Your dentist will take impressions of your gums after the abutments and implants are placed and send them off to be made into dentures. Depending on the type of dentures, they could be made from different materials. Once your dentist receives your restorations, they’ll place them on top of your implants.
Osseointegration
The process in which your titanium implants fuse with your jawbone is called osseointegration. This provides your restorations with a strong foundation to be placed on top of and prevents bone deterioration. With regular dentures that rely on suction, you may experience bone loss and notice your face to become droopy. Because of osseointegration, you won’t have to worry about that with dental implants.
Titanium
Most dental implants are made from titanium because it’s a lightweight metal that few people have allergic reactions to. Although it’s a light material, it’s incredibly strong and helps reduce the amount of weight and pressure placed on your bone and oral tissues. Because it has a high oxygen affinity, you won’t have to worry about corrosion, making your implants last longer.
Dental implants can improve your quality of life and ease your discomfort from tooth loss. Scheduling a consultation with your dentist can give you a chance to ask questions about the procedure and be sure it’s the right fit for you.
About the Author
Dr. Scott Grivas received his Doctor of Dental Surgery and opened his practice in Sacramento over a decade ago. He enjoys creating long-lasting relationships with his patients and seeing their smiles improve over time. He has been recognized by the International Dental Implant Association and awarded with Fellowship status, demonstrating his skills and expertise. For any questions or to schedule a consultation about dental implants, visit his website or contact 916-571-0815.