Implant Restorations

the best solution for missing teeth

If you have lost one or more teeth due to injury, disease, or decay, you may be wondering what your options are to restore your smile and function. One of the most advanced and effective solutions is implant restoration. Implant restoration is the process of replacing missing teeth with artificial teeth that are supported by dental implants.

What are dental implants?

Dental implants are small titanium screws that are surgically inserted into your jawbone, where they act as artificial tooth roots. Dental implants are biocompatible, meaning they fuse with your bone and become a permanent part of your jaw. Dental implants provide a stable and secure foundation for artificial teeth, such as crowns, bridges, or dentures.

What are the benefits of implant restoration?

Implant restoration has many advantages over other methods of tooth replacement, such as:

  • Improved appearance: Implant restoration can restore the natural shape and size of your teeth, as well as your facial contours and profile. Implant restoration can also prevent bone loss and preserve your jawbone structure, which can prevent premature aging and sagging of your face.
  • Improved function: Implant restoration can restore your ability to chew, speak, and smile with confidence. Implant restoration can also improve your bite and occlusion, which can prevent jaw pain and headaches.
  • Improved comfort: Implant restoration can eliminate the discomfort and inconvenience of removable dentures, such as slipping, clicking, or irritation. Implant restoration can also protect your healthy teeth from damage or wear caused by bridges or partial dentures.
  • Improved durability: Implant restoration can last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. Implant restoration can also withstand greater forces and pressures than natural teeth, making them more resistant to fracture or decay.

What are the risks of implant restoration?

Implant restoration is a safe and effective procedure that has a high success rate. However, like any surgery, implant restoration may involve some risks and complications, such as:

These risks are rare and can be minimized by choosing a qualified and experienced implant dentist, following the pre- and post-operative instructions carefully, and maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental visits.

How is implant restoration done?

Implant restoration is usually done in two phases: the surgical phase and the restorative phase.

The surgical phase

The surgical phase involves placing the dental implants into your jawbone. This may require one or more surgeries depending on the number and location of the implants, as well as the condition of your bone. The surgical phase may take several months to complete, as you need to allow time for the implants to heal and integrate with your bone.

The steps of the surgical phase are:

  • Consultation: Your implant dentist will examine your mouth, take x-rays and impressions of your teeth, and discuss your goals and expectations. Your implant dentist will also review your medical history and determine if you are a good candidate for implant restoration. You may need to undergo some preparatory procedures before the surgery, such as bone grafting, sinus lifting, or tooth extraction.
  • Anesthesia: Your implant dentist will administer local anesthesia to numb the area where the implants will be placed. You may also receive sedation to help you relax during the surgery.
  • Incision: Your implant dentist will make a small incision in your gum to expose the underlying bone.
  • Drilling: Your implant dentist will use a special drill to create a hole in your bone where the implant will be inserted.
  • Placement: Your implant dentist will insert the implant into the hole and tighten it with a torque wrench. Your implant dentist will then place a healing cap over the implant to protect it from infection and pressure.
  • Suture: Your implant dentist will close the incision with stitches and apply a gauze pad to stop any bleeding.
  • Recovery: You will be given some instructions on how to care for your mouth after the surgery, such as taking painkillers, antibiotics, and anti-inflammatory drugs, avoiding smoking and alcohol, eating soft foods, and rinsing with salt water. You will also need to visit your implant dentist regularly for check-ups and adjustments.

The restorative phase

The restorative phase involves attaching the artificial teeth to the dental implants. This usually happens after 3 to 6 months from the surgery, when the implants have fully integrated with your bone.

The steps of the restorative phase are:

  • Impression: Your implant dentist will remove the healing caps from the implants and replace them with impression posts. Your implant dentist will then take an impression of your mouth using a special material that captures the shape and position of your implants.
  • Fabrication: Your implant dentist will send the impression to a dental laboratory, where they will create your artificial teeth. Your artificial teeth will be customized to match the color, size, and shape of your natural teeth, as well as your bite and occlusion.
  • Fitting: Your implant dentist will receive your artificial teeth from the laboratory and test them for fit and function. Your implant dentist will then attach your artificial teeth to the implants using abutments and screws. Your implant dentist will make any necessary adjustments to ensure your comfort and satisfaction.
  • Maintenance: You will be given some instructions on how to care for your implant restoration, such as brushing, flossing, and rinsing regularly, avoiding hard or sticky foods, and visiting your implant dentist for cleaning and examination.

Other Services

Contact Us Today

If you are interested in implant restoration or want to learn more about it, please contact us today to schedule a consultation. We will be happy to answer any questions you may have and help you achieve the smile of your dreams. We look forward to hearing from you soon!