Dental implants in Sacramento are one of the best ways to replace missing teeth. They’re secure in the mouth, and you can treat them like they’re your natural teeth. Plus, they help to preserve the structure of your jawbone, and they can save the surrounding teeth from extra wear and tear. Really, in most cases, dental implants are a win-win option. However, if you’re thinking about getting implants, you might be confused about some of the terms your dentist uses. Here is a breakdown of some key implant-related vocabulary.

Implants and Their Parts

• Implant: A small post, usually made of metal, that bonds with your jawbone and supports at least one artificial tooth.
• Endosteal implant: The most common type of implant. Your dentist uses plates, screws, cylinders, or blades to insert an implant directly into the jawbone.
• Eposteal implant: Implants that rest directly on the jawbone. They may be appropriate for patients whose bones are at risk for becoming weaker through a process known as resorption.
• Subperiosteal implant: Implants wherein post protrudes above the gum line.
• Abutment: The small piece that is attached to the top of an implant. The artificial tooth is then attached to the abutment.
• Crown: A tooth-shaped cap. A crown usually goes over an existing tooth, but it may also go over an implant’s abutment.

Implant Materials

• Titanium: The most common material used for dental implants. It is durable and lightweight, and few people are allergic to it.
• Zirconia: A white metal that may be used as an alternative to titanium.
• Ceramic: A form of hardened clay that may be used for implants for people who have metal allergies.

Other Important Terms

• Osseointegration: The process through which implants bond with your jawbone. This helps your face to maintain its structure and ensures that your jaw stays strong.
• Dentures: Another common way to replace missing teeth. Traditional dentures sit on top of your gums, but implant-supported dentures are also available.
• Abutment teeth: The teeth on either side of a gap in your smile. They may be used to support a traditional fixed dental bridge

Still Have Questions?

All of the above terms can seem like a jumbled alphabet soup, but you don’t have to resign yourself to confusion. Your dentist will be happy to discuss in detail the implant process with you, and you should feel free to ask any questions that come to mind. Do some research on your own before you head in for your appointment, and jot down your concerns so you don’t forget to talk about the with your dental care provider.

Getting dental implants in Sacramento can seem like an intimidating process, but there’s no reason to panic. Implants can restore your smile and your oral health.

About the Dentist

Dr. Scott Grivas is passionate about providing caring and personalized care to his patients. He has experience with implants and other restorative dentistry techniques. If you have questions about how you can get back the smile you’ve been missing, contact Dr. Grivas and his team at 916-571-0815.