The Basics of Dental Implant Restoration: A Comprehensive Guide

If you have missing teeth and want to restore your smile, but want a solution that’s natural-looking, functional, and long-lasting, consider dental implants. Dental implant restoration is a popular and permanent alternative to dental brides and dentures.

What Is Dental Implant Restoration?

Dental implant restoration refers to replacing a missing tooth with an artificial tooth root and a customized crown. The replacement tooth root is made from metal, usually titanium. The oral metal device restores tooth functionality by mimicking the natural tooth root lost through decay or extraction. The replacement crown, usually made of porcelain, is securely fitted to the implant using connectors (abutments).

Types of Dental Implants

Dental implants remain the most popular option for the millions of U.S. adults with missing teeth, thanks to the extensive treatment benefits. They represent a flexible restorative dentistry solution since they can permanently replace a single, several, or all missing teeth. Alternatively, your dentist can utilize implants to support a dental bridge or dentures. Here are the types of dental implants.

• Single Tooth Dental Implants – Suitable for replacing a single tooth without affecting the health of nearby teeth
• Multiple Tooth Dental Implants – Caters for the restoration of several teeth in a row
• Full Mouth Dental Implants – An option for patients who are missing all their teeth and can benefit from full-mouth dental implant restoration
• Same-Day Dental Implants – The patient receives the implants and new crowns on the same day.
• All-On-4 Dental Implants – The dentist uses only four implants to support a full arch of fixed dentures

What Is the Dental Implant Restoration Process?

The first step is a consultation with a dentist specializing in restorative dentistry. They will consider your needs and determine if you’re a suitable candidate for this cosmetic treatment.

• Pre-implant surgery: Some patients need special procedures done before undergoing implant surgery. For example, bone grafting, sinus lift, ridge expansion, gum disease treatment, or extraction.
• Implant surgery: The implant is placed in the jawbone or gum, depending on the surgical procedure used. The two types are endosteal and subperiosteal.
• Post-implant surgery: After placing the implant, time is given for the gum to heal and the artificial tooth root to attach to the jawbone. Healing and fusion take several months. Your dentist may cover the implant with a temporary crown.
• Crown placement: Once healing is complete, the porcelain crown is placed over the implant. The dentist will use special connectors to permanently secure the crown or implant-supported dentures.

The exact process will vary from patient to patient based on the type of implant and surgical procedure.

Dental Implant Restoration Treatment Benefits

Dental implants outperform other tooth replacement options because it is a permanent solution, and for these other reasons:

• Look, feel, and function like your real teeth
• Provide a stable, fuller, and healthier smile  
• Restore eating and speaking abilities
• Do not rely on nearby teeth for support like dental bridges and dentures do
• Can be used to anchor dentures and bridges
• Protect nearby teeth from damage or shifting
• Keep the jawbone healthy
• Are resistant to decay and can last a lifetime
• Save money in the long run since they do not require periodic maintenance or replacement like dentures or bridges do
• Can be cared for using the same routine recommended for natural teeth along with regular dental checkups.

What Is the Cost of Dental Implant Restoration?

The cost of a single dental implant and porcelain crown averages between $3,500 and $6,700. Full-mouth restoration ranges from $15,000 - $30,000 per dental arch. The final cost depends on factors such as the extent of dental work needed before implant surgery.

Many insurance providers consider implant surgery a cosmetic treatment and won’t cover the cost. At The Dental Studio, we believe cost should not keep you from restoring your smile and enjoying the other treatment benefits. Our Membership Plans are an alternative way for patients to afford treatment.

Dental Implant Restoration at The Dental Studio

We are the pioneers of healthy, beautiful smiles in Flower Mound, TX. Dr. Sabour, our compassionate implant dentist, has over a decade of experience in cosmetic and restorative dentistry. She will use her expertise to recreate your natural smile. Let us serve you in a professional, state-of-the-art, luxurious environment. Call 214-285-5900 to schedule an appointment.

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