Dictionary of Dental Implant Terms
It is important to know the common terms related to the form of treatment for tooth loss called dental implants. Having an understanding of these terms will help in your evaluation of whether dental implants are the right solution for your particular situation. If you are seeking dental implant treatment, Houston has a variety of professional dentists, oral surgeons and periodontists who can assist you.
Crown
A crown is an artificial tooth that is mounted on a dental implant to replace a missing tooth.
Dental Implant
The dental implant is a small and sturdy post made of titanium that is implanted into the jawbone to act as the root structure for a replacement tooth. Implants are the newest method for replacing the roots of teeth that have been lost.
Dentures
Dentures are removable sets of replacement teeth that are often considered an alternative way to replace missing teeth. This can be some teeth, or a replacement of the entire upper or lower teeth.
Edentulous
Edentulous is a term that means to be toothless.
Implant-Supported Dentures
Dentures that have implants in place to support and secure the dentures are called implant-supported dentures. This can increase the stability of the dentures and reduce gum and tissue irritation because the dentures are no longer slipping.
Oral Hygiene
The term oral hygiene refers to the care of your mouth and teeth. This can include brushing and flossing of the teeth, in addition to routine screening visits to a dentist.
Oral Maxillofacial Surgeon
This professional is a dentist who specializes in surgery of the mouth, face and jaw. Oral surgeons receive four to seven years of additional training in a hospital after completing dental school.
Osseointegration
Oseeointegration is the process where the dental implant is integrated into the bone of the jaw as the bone grows around the implant. This process can take from three to six months for the implant to be adequately fused and anchored to the bone.
Peri-Implantitis
Peri-Implantitis is an infection of the gum and tissue around the site of a dental implant.
Periodontist
A periodontist is a dental specialist who has training in diagnosing and treating diseases and problems with gum tissue and the tissues surrounding the jaw.
Periodontitis
One severe gum disease that can develop around a natural tooth is called periodontitis.
Prosthodontist
Sometimes known as a cosmetic dentist or restorative dentist, the prosthodontist is a specialist in providing restorative treatment after the loss of teeth and their supporting structures.
Resorption
Resorption refers to the process where the bone of the jaw begins to dissolve after a tooth is lost. The longer a tooth is missing increases the chance and amount of bone loss or deterioration.