Common Dental Implant Terms You Should Know

If you’re ready to replace your lost teeth with dental implants, you’re making an excellent investment. You’ll need to schedule a consultation with an implant dentist to see if they are right for you. Your dentist may use various terms that can sound like a foreign language. You don’t have to worry about any misunderstandings during your appointment. Here are the definitions of the top dental implant terms you should know.

Abutment

An abutment is a special fixture that’s attached to the implant post. It will secure your restoration to the post. Every dental implant will require an abutment.

Bone Grafting

Bone grafting and dental implants often go hand in hand. A missing tooth can cause your jawbone to shrink by up to 25% in 1 year because it isn’t being stimulated by the root. Your jaw can continue to shrink as time passes. 

You must have a strong jawbone to support dental implants. Your dentist will review a CT scan of your oral structures to ensure your jaw is healthy. If you’ve suffered bone loss, you may require bone grafting before getting dental implants. It strengthens your jaw to ensure they can support the posts.

Implant Post

An implant post will serve as a new tooth root. Titanium is the standard material because it is biocompatible, lightweight, and durable. You’ll require a surgical procedure to insert the implant into your jawbone.

Osseointegration

Osseointegration is a process that must occur for dental implants to be successful. Your jaw must fuse with the post. It can take several months for your bone to heal.

Peri-Implantitis

Peri-implantitis is a leading cause of dental implant failure, but it is preventable. The infection is like gum disease and can destroy the supporting structures of your implant and any remaining teeth. You can avoid it with good oral hygiene and regular dental care.

Sinus Augmentation

A sinus augmentation is often used along with bone grafting. Bone loss in the upper arch can cause dental implants to protrude into the maxillary sinus cavity. A sinus augmentation lifts your sinuses and bone grafting adds height to your bone to create enough space for implant posts.

Restoration

All-ceramic materials are used to create prosthetic teeth that look and feel natural. Only a trained dental professional will know they aren’t real.

If you have any questions during your consultation, your dentist will provide you with the information you need to understand exactly what you can expect on the road ahead. 

About Dr. Nima Moradi Majd

Dr. Majd earned his dental degree at the Tehran University of Medical Sciences and achieved his second dental degree from the Howard University College of Dentistry. He has also completed a 2-year Postdoctoral Endodontic Program. Dr. Majd has the training and qualifications to treat the most complex oral health issues, including tooth loss. Request an appointment through his website or call his office at (703) 688-8459 to see if dental implants are right for you.