7 Key Terms Related to Dental Implants in Colleyville!

Are you missing one or more teeth? Is so, then you don’t need to be told how difficult it can make life. You have a remedy, though, with the placement of dental implants in Colleyville. Before moving forward with undergoing the procedure, here are 7 important terms for you to know. Read ahead to be informed, and then prepare to experience the bliss of having a fully restored smile!

Term #1 – Dental Implant

What better place to start our discovery then with the term ‘dental implant’ itself? It is a cylinder-shaped apparatus made from durable titanium, which is a biocompatible material. The purpose of the fixture is to mimic the natural function of the tooth’s root to create a stable and lasting foundation that supports the entire jawbone.

Term #2 – Osseointegration

The dental implant process has a 95% success rate, and part of the reason for that is the tedious approach that is taken by your dentist to make sure you have enough bone mass available to allow the implant to seat properly. Another major contributor to the implant’s longevity is a process called osseointegration, which is the natural fusion of the fixture to the underlying bone. This part of the process typically takes three-to-six months to complete.

The result is a sound and sturdy foundation that, with proper care, can last up to a lifetime.

Term #3 – Abutment

After you’ve healed sufficiently from the initial placement of the implant and the same has fused with your jawbone, an abutment is added. Made from titanium as well, it is screwed into the implant to act as an anchor to hold the final restoration securely in place.

Term #4 – Restoration

The term ‘restoration’ refers to the dental crown that is affixed to the abutment. Usually made from high-grade tooth-colored porcelain, the fixture serves as the final piece of the puzzle to restore the functionality and smile aesthetics that you’ve been missing.

Term #5 – Implant-Retained Crown

As the name suggests, an implant-retained crown serves as a cap that sits atop the tooth. It is the visible portion that is seen above the gum line, and its primary functions are as follows:

• To protect the more sensitive areas of the tooth
• To allow the tooth’s proper function
• To support the other teeth and prevent shifting
• To create a more symmetrical smile

Term #6 – Implant-Retained Bridge

A traditional dental bridge consists of two or more porcelain crowns, and the apparatus is held in place by being affixed to the surrounding teeth. An implant-retained bridge, however, is securely attached to the abutment that is screwed into the implant to leave you with a reliable and durable restoration.

Term #7 – Implant-Retained Dentures

Implant-retained dentures provide an upgrade to the traditional denture approach, which relies on adhesive and suction to maintain its position. By being attached to the strategically-placed titanium posts, implant-retained dentures leave patients with a set of teeth that looks and functions like they were born with it.

Now that you’re more familiar with some of the important terms related to the dental implant process, the only step left is to reach out to your dentist in Colleyville to schedule an examination and consultation. You’re just a visit away from regaining the life you’ve been wanting!

About the Author

Dr. Steven Branberg is a graduate of the University of Southern California School of Dentistry, where he would later also earn his Certificate in Prosthodontics. His vast educational background and years of experience allow him to complete every aspect of the dental implant process himself, which translates into greater quality control. Dr. Branberg places dental implants at The DFW Dental Implant Center, and he can be reached for more information through his website.