Restore Your Smile with Dental Implant Restorations at Lakeshore Dental
Dental implants are an excellent long-term solution for replacing missing teeth, but they are only part of the process. The final step is the dental implant restoration, which is the visible part of your new tooth. At Lakeshore Dental, Dr. Alexa Crete specializes in creating custom crowns, bridges, and dentures that attach to your dental implants, giving you a fully restored, natural-looking smile. Whether you need to replace a single tooth or multiple teeth, we’ll help you complete your dental implant journey with beautiful, durable restorations.
What is a Dental Implant Restoration?
A dental implant restoration is the prosthetic component that is attached to a dental implant post to replace missing teeth. The implant itself is a titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone, acting as an artificial tooth root. Once the implant has integrated with the bone, a custom-made restoration is attached to the implant. The most common types of implant restorations include:
- Implant Crowns: Used to replace a single missing tooth.
- Implant Bridges: Used to replace two or more missing teeth.
- Implant-Supported Dentures: Full or partial dentures that are anchored by implants for added stability.
Benefits of Dental Implant Restorations
- Permanent Solution: Implant restorations provide a stable, long-lasting solution for missing teeth that look and feel like natural teeth.
- Improved Functionality: Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, implant restorations are secured directly to the jawbone, allowing for more efficient chewing and speaking.
- Natural Appearance: Custom crowns, bridges, and dentures are designed to match the shape, size, and color of your natural teeth, ensuring a seamless and beautiful smile.
- Bone Preservation: Dental implants help preserve bone density by stimulating the jawbone, preventing the bone loss that can occur with missing teeth.
Types of Dental Implant Restorations
- Single-Tooth Implant Restoration (Crown): A single dental crown is placed over the implant to replace one missing tooth. This is an ideal solution for patients who have lost a tooth due to injury, decay, or extraction.
- Multi-Tooth Implant Restoration (Bridge): An implant-supported bridge is used to replace two or more adjacent missing teeth. Instead of relying on natural teeth for support, the bridge is anchored to dental implants for added stability and durability.
- Implant-Supported Dentures: For patients missing all or most of their teeth, implant-supported dentures provide a more secure and comfortable alternative to traditional removable dentures. These dentures are anchored to multiple implants, ensuring they stay in place while providing a natural look and feel.
The Dental Implant Restoration Process
- Implant Placement: If you haven’t already had your implants placed, Dr. Crete will coordinate with an oral surgeon or periodontist to ensure your implant placement is successful.
- Healing Period: After implant placement, the implant will need time to integrate with the jawbone, a process that typically takes a few months.
- Custom Restoration: Once the implant has fully healed, impressions of your teeth and gums will be taken to create your custom crown, bridge, or denture.
- Final Placement: Dr. Crete will attach the custom-made restoration to the dental implant, ensuring a secure fit and natural appearance.
FAQs About Dental Implant Restoration at Lakeshore Dental
How long do dental implant restorations last?
With proper care, dental implant restorations can last 10-15 years or longer. Implants themselves can last a lifetime, while the restorations (such as crowns or bridges) may need replacement after several years of wear.
Are dental implant restorations painful?
No, the restoration process is typically painless. The implant placement may cause mild discomfort, but once healed, attaching the restoration is a straightforward and comfortable process.
How do I care for my dental implant restoration?
Caring for implant restorations is similar to caring for natural teeth. Brush and floss regularly, and visit the dentist for routine check-ups to ensure your implant remains healthy and secure.
Complete Your Smile with Dental Implant Restorations at Lakeshore Dental
If you’ve received dental implants or are considering them as a solution for missing teeth, contact Lakeshore Dental at (970) 221-1926 to schedule a consultation. Dr. Crete will work with you to design a custom implant restoration that looks natural and restores full function to your smile.