Implants
Osseointegration
Osseointegration is the process by which jawbone grows tightly against a dental implant, which holds the implant firmly in place.
The word means that the implant combines with the bone. After the post is placed, bone cells attach to its surface. This takes time. The ADA says osseointegration means combines with the bone and takes time, and that what makes an implant so strong is that the bone actually grows around it and holds it in place. Dentists often wait a few months before adding the final tooth. Things that can slow the process include smoking, poor gum health, and some health conditions, so tell your dentist about them. If the bone does not bond, the implant may become loose. That is one form of implant failure. Read about dental implants and titanium.