Thinking about visiting us for dental implant placement to restore your smile? We think you are making a wonderful decision that will have a lasting and positive impact on your quality of life and your oral health. Though we assume that you are likely equally excited and confident about your decision, you may find that the closer you get to beginning treatment, the more you would like to make sure you know exactly what we are talking about when we discuss placement and recovery. To make sure you know what’s what, your best bet is to ensure you are familiar with the main terms associated with implants. Ready to see how much you know and to sharpen your vocabulary a bit? Take the following quiz:
Dental Implant Terms Quiz: True or False?
- True or False: A dental implant is a solid tooth from root to crown that we will place into your jawbone, replacing your roots and the visible portion of your tooth.
- True or False: An abutment is the artificial tooth that we will place on top of your implant.
- True or False: Implant dentures typically require fewer implants than the amount of teeth you are replacing – they will be made to fit over the implants for improved stability.
- True or False: When we say we are going to “restore” you implant, it means we are going to fix it.
Quiz Answer Key
- False. The implant is only the post that will replace your roots. We will implant it into your jawbone but it will not stick out above your gumline. Once you heal, it will offer support to a dental crown or other prosthetic.
- False. An abutment is an accessory connector piece. We will place it within the top of your implant. We will then connect your artificial tooth or prosthetic to the abutment for a secure fit.
- True. You will not need an implant in every open space to support a denture.
- False. Restore means to place a prosthetic on top of your implant. We refer to the prosthetic as the “restoration.”
ABOUT YOUR CERRITOS ORAL SURGEON:
Dr. Shawn Hofkes and the staff at Cerritos Dental Surgery are highly qualified to address complex issues, including those that require oral surgery to correct. To schedule an appointment or consultation with Dr. Hofkes, contact us today by calling 562-584-4082. We proudly serve patients of all ages from Cerritos, Lakewood, Long Beach, Buena Park, and all surrounding communities.
