Implant Restorations
Implant Restorations: A Permanent Solution for Missing Teeth
Types of Dental Implant Restorations
Dental implants are a versatile solution for replacing missing teeth. They can support a range of restorations—from single crowns to full-arch prosthetics—depending on how many teeth are missing, the health of your jawbone, and your treatment goals.
1. Single Implant Crown
- Use: Replaces a single missing tooth
- Components: Implant post, abutment, and custom crown
- Advantages: Does not involve neighboring teeth; looks and functions like a natural tooth
- Common Location: Any single missing tooth site, front or back
2. Implant-Supported Bridge
- Use: Replaces two or more adjacent missing teeth
- How It Works: Two or more implants are placed to anchor a bridge (a row of prosthetic teeth)
- Advantages: No need for crowns on natural teeth; maintains jawbone in the edentulous area
- Ideal For: Patients missing multiple teeth in one segment
3. Full-Arch Fixed Implant Prosthesis (also known as Hybrid Prosthesis - All-on-4® or 6) A permanent solution for complete tooth loss in one or both arches
Benefits
- Permanent and Secure
- Screwed to implants and only removable by a dentist
- Restores Full Function
- Strong biting and chewing capability
- Enables a more natural diet (e.g., fruits, vegetables, meats)
- Custom-designed to look like natural teeth and gums
- Can improve facial structure and reverse “sunken” denture appearanc
- No bulky acrylic palate like traditional dentures
- Brushed like natural teeth (plus special tools for under the prosthesis)
- No nightly removal or adhesives needed
- Durable and designed to last many years
Considerations
- Surgical Procedure Required; Involves implant placement surgery
- Higher Upfront Cost; More expensive than traditional dentures or bridges initially, but often cost-effective over time due to longevity and fewer replacements
- Not Removable at Home; Requires routine hygiene visits for cleaning under the prosthesis
- Hygiene and Maintenance Commitment; Requires diligent home care: brushing, flossing under the prosthesis, use of water flossers, etc.
Is a Full-Arch Fixed Prosthesis Right for You?
This treatment is often ideal for patients who:
- Are missing most or all teeth in the upper or lower jaw
- Want a permanent, natural-looking solution
- Are tired of removable dentures or cannot tolerate them
Sample clinical cases: