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:

 

• Anterior Implant Crown 

Before                

  

• Anterior Implant Bridge 

This person was born with a severe cleft lip and palate, which affected their smile and ability to chew properly. For many years, the only option was a removable acrylic partial denture. Once all the adult teeth came in and growth was complete, oral surgeons began rebuilding the area with bone grafts through several surgeries over time. After enough bone was in place, three dental implants were placed. Once the implants healed, a fixed bridge was attached, restoring both the appearance and function of their smile.

 

Before                          

 

After