Implant Restoration [What it Means & How it’s Done]

Implant restoration is a dental procedure used to replace a missing tooth or missing teeth by placing a crown, bridge, or denture over a dental implant. This process restores both the appearance and function of your natural teeth, offering a durable and long-lasting solution. Whether you’re missing one tooth or several, implant restoration can help you regain confidence in your smile and improve your oral health.

Discover what it means to get a dental implant restoration and what to look for in a denturist.

Types of Implant Restoration

There are several types of implant restoration (also known as implant therapy) options available, each designed to meet different needs and preferences. Whether you need a single implant restoration or to replace several missing teeth, there is an implant supported option for you.

Here’s a look at some of the most common implant restorations:

All-on-4 Locator Fixed Denture

The All-on-4 Locator Fixed Denture is a popular option for those who need to replace an entire arch of teeth in the lower or upper jaw. This system uses four dental implants to secure a fixed denture, which stays in place permanently. It offers a stable and secure solution for patients who want the look and feel of natural teeth without the worry of dentures slipping.

All-on-4 Snap-On Denture

The All-on-4 Snap-On Denture is similar to the fixed version but with the added convenience of removability. It still uses four implants to anchor the denture, but the denture can be easily snapped on and off for cleaning. This option provides a balance between stability and convenience, making it a great choice for many patients.

Implant Overdenture

An Implant Overdenture is a removable denture that is secured by dental implants. Unlike traditional dentures, which rely on suction or adhesive, implant overdentures snap onto implants, providing improved stability and comfort. This option is particularly beneficial for patients who struggle with loose-fitting dentures.

Zest Locator® Snap-On Dentures

The Zest Locator® system is a trusted solution for many denture wearers. It involves attaching a removable denture to two or four implants, allowing the denture to securely “snap” in place. This type of denture is easy to remove for cleaning and maintenance.

If you’re concerned about the cost of snap-in dentures or denture implants in Boise, ID, European Denture Center can work with you to find the most affordable solution, thanks to our in-house denture lab.

All-On-4™ Dental Implants

The All-On-4™ Dental Implant system is a revolutionary technique that replaces all of your natural teeth with a full arch denture or a fixed bridge. This system uses four strategically placed implants to support your new teeth. The cost of

All-On-4 implants varies depending on individual needs, but it’s generally affordable, especially when crafted by our European Denture Center laboratory. We provide this service in Boise, Idaho, as well as in Nampa, Caldwell, and Everett, offering high-quality and cost-effective denture solutions.

Implant Restoration Steps Example: Screw-Retained Crown Restorations

An implant acts like a natural tooth root, creating a stable, secure foundation for your tooth replacement. Below, we discuss the implant procedure for screw-retained implants specifically.

This will help you understand how this process works and what to expect from implant placement.

Step 1: Taking the Impression

The first step in creating your crown is to take an impression, which is a mold of your teeth and gums. This helps the denturist ensure that your new crown fits perfectly. In this case, we’ll use an open tray method, which is known for its high accuracy.

• Removing the Healing Abutment: After your gums have healed (usually about 10 days after surgery), the healing cap on your implant is carefully removed. This allows the denturist to access the implant and prepare it for the impression.
• Placing the Fixture Mount: A small piece, called a fixture mount, is attached to your implant. This helps the denturist accurately capture the position of the implant in the impression.
• Customizing the Tray: A special tray is prepared to fit your mouth. The tray will have a small opening that allows the fixture mount to protrude, ensuring an accurate mold.
• Applying the Impression Material: The denturist will apply a soft, putty-like material around the fixture mount and place the tray in your mouth. This material will harden and capture a detailed mold of your teeth and implant.
• Removing the Impression: Once the impression material has set, the denturist will remove it along with the fixture mount. The healing cap is then put back in place to protect the implant until your next visit.

Step 2: Delivering the Screw-Retained Crown

Once your crown has been made in the dental lab, it’s time to place it on your implant.

• Removing the Healing Abutment Again: The healing cap is removed, and the denturist checks your gums to ensure they’re healthy and ready for the crown.
• Sanitizing the Crown: Before placing it, the crown is soaked in a mouthwash solution to ensure it’s completely clean.
• Attaching the Crown: The implant abutment and crown is carefully placed on the implant and screwed into place. The denturist will adjust the crown to make sure it fits comfortably and doesn’t interfere with your bite.
• Filling the Screw Channel: A small piece of cotton or another material is placed into the screw hole to allow easy access in the future. Then, the rest of the hole is filled with a temporary material.

Step 3: Final Adjustments and Check-Up

After a few weeks, you’ll return to the denturist for final adjustments.

• Tightening the Screw: The temporary filling is removed, and the screw is tightened to its final position using a special tool. This ensures your crown is securely attached.
• Final Filling: A permanent filling material is used to seal the screw hole, making everything look and feel natural.
• X-Ray Confirmation: A final X-ray is taken to ensure everything is in the correct position. This X-ray will also serve as a baseline for future check-ups.

Step 4: Follow-Up and Care

Your denturist will schedule a follow-up visit within four months to ensure everything is healing properly and the implant is stable. You’ll also receive instructions on how to care for your new crown to keep it in the best condition.

This process may seem lengthy, but each step is important to ensure that your crown is secure, comfortable, and long-lasting. If you have any concerns or questions along the way, don’t hesitate to ask your denturist!

Get Started With European Denture Center

The denturists at European Denture Center are committed to creating natural looking and functional tooth replacements. At the initial consultation, every individual patient receives a comprehensive treatment plan and the answers to all their questions.

Reach out to the premier denture dentist ready to assist today.