Understanding Dental Implant Restorations
For the longest time, dental health has been a major concern in society. Missing teeth impede a lot of people from leading normal lifestyles. However, dental implant restorations ensure you don’t struggle with normal daily activities such as speaking and eating. It can also boost your confidence greatly.
At South Hadley Dental Group, our dentists are experienced at placing dental implants. To schedule a consultation, give our office a call or book online.
The Dental Implant Process
Dental implant restoration is the process of fixing missing teeth. This process is permanent and thus provides a lasting solution. The artificial teeth are secured into the jawbone with titanium-made screw-like stubs. Once the stumps are in place, a dentist attaches custom-made dental implant restorations.
Dental implant restorations are equally capable as natural teeth. They also blend in perfectly, revealing an aesthetic look. You can eat, speak and smile normally with full confidence. Nowadays, most people prefer dental implant restorations to traditional dentures. Statistically, approximately 500,000 dental implant restorations are conducted annually.
There are numerous options for restoring missing teeth via dental implants. It’s advisable to visit the dentist to identify the best procedure depending on your condition. Types of implants include:
-
Single-unit implant crown – replaces only one missing tooth.
-
Implant bridge – targets some missing teeth in the same area.
-
Implant denture – replaces multiple missing teeth.
-
Implant hybrid prosthesis – targets numerous missing teeth and offers better chewing abilities.
Benefits of Dental Implant Restorations
Dental implants come with many benefits, such as:
- Your speech is improved.
- Eating and chewing capabilities are restored.
- Implants provide a lasting solution.
- Your false teeth are permanently fixed and will not shift.
Procedure for Dental Implant Restorations
Due to the complexity of the process, it’s conducted only by a dental implant specialist. The implant restoration procedure includes several steps.
-
Clinical Examination
-
Tooth Extraction
-
Implant Placement
-
Healing Abutment
-
Final Abutment
-
Dental Crown
On the first visit, the dentist checks the condition of your teeth and may inquire about any underlying conditions such as hypertension. X-rays may be taken to determine the quality and the size of your jaw bone.
The dentist removes the severely damaged teeth. This step is skipped if you already have missing teeth.
The dentist places the implants in your jawbone via drilling. Some dentists use a surgical guide, while others do not. A surgical guide aids in precision and accuracy during the drilling of your bone. After the implants have been fitted inside the bone, the dentist gives you 2 – 3 months for the area to heal. New bone forms around the implant, making it firm and strong.
In some cases, dentists may fix direct loading implant restorations by placing a temporary crown on the same day. The temporary teeth are functional and reduce the number of visits to your dentist.
After 2 – 3 months, the dentist uncovers the implants that lie beneath the jawbone. The dentist places a healing abutment, which shapes the gums in preparation for the artificial tooth.
The dentist fits a final abutment on the implants to hold the crown too. After that, the dentist takes an impression or mold of your jaw with implants and abutments. Once the impressions are finished, they are sent to a dental lab to prepare your crowns.
For the final step, the dentist fixes the dental crowns on your implants.
Dental implant restorations are as strong as natural teeth and are better-looking. This complete process takes a few months.
How to Care for Your Dental Implants
The biggest question for most people is the lifespan of dental implant restorations. This depends on various factors, such as care and hygiene. Optimal dental hygiene is paramount if you want your restorations to last for a lifetime. With proper care, it is possible. Here are some care tips:
- Always clean your teeth and implants after meals.
- Brush and floss both teeth and implants regularly.
- Gargle your mouth with an antibacterial mouth spray.
- Visit the local dentist for regular check-ups.
Conclusion
If you have missing teeth, South Hadley Dental Group offers dental implant restoration services. Visit our dental office to consult with one of our dentists.