Different Options for Dental Replacement
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root or a titanium screw placed into the jaw to support a replacement tooth or bridge. Dental implants are highly beneficial to those who have lost a tooth or teeth due to injury, periodontal disease or some other reason. The different options available for dental replacement are single tooth replacement, multiple tooth replacement and removable implant-supported tooth replacement.
Single tooth replacement
A single tooth replacement is when a tooth is replaced by a single implant and a crown. An implant which looks like a screw is placed into the jaw. After a period of healing, an abutment is attached to the implant. A replacement tooth called a crown, which is custom-made by the dental laboratory, is then attached to the abutment permanently. The custom made crown is fabricated to match the existing natural teeth.
Multiple tooth replacement
In a multiple tooth replacement, temporary healing caps or abutments are placed on multiple implants until the healing phase is complete.Once the healing is complete, permanent abutments are attached to the implants. These abutments can attach to custom made crowns or bridges that are fabricated to match the natural teeth.Finally, the custom bridge is cemented or screwed to the abutments.
Removable implant-supported tooth replacement
If all teeth are missing, removable implants can replace them. Depending on design of the removable restoration, two to six implants may be used to support a lower denture. If all the upper teeth are missing, a minimum of four implants may be used to support the upper denture. Many times, removable dentures are used to replace extensive tooth, bone and gum-tissue loss to support the facial skeleton, lip and cheeks. To create additional strength and support to the restoration, the dentures can have attachments or a custom made, milled bar can be fabricated.
Dr. Aki Shirakura & Associates
If you are considering dental implants, the staff at the office of Dr. Aki Shirakura & Associates is both trained and experienced in the process of dental implants. Contact us today to see if a dental implant is the right choice for you.