Single Tooth Replacement Implants
Our single-tooth replacement is one of several available options. If you are missing a tooth or have a tooth that is severely damaged and needs replacement, the single-tooth option may be appropriate. Consult the experts at Boulder County Smiles to find out what the best solution is for you and your smile.
Single teeth replacements are restored with a custom crown, as opposed to multi-tooth replacements using bridges or dentures.
Single Tooth Implant Procedure
Step 01: Prep Work
Before the implant dentistry procedure, Dr. Johns or Dr. West performs an exam and takes one or more X-rays of the affected area to prepare for the implant dentistry procedure.
Step 02: Implant Placement
The dental implant titanium post is placed. An abutment, which is the appliance the crown will rest on, will be connected to the implant. Once the implant and abutment have healed slightly, a temporary tooth is provided that allows normal functionality during the waiting period. The dental implant needs a few months to integrate with the jawbone before the next step is taken.
Step 03: Dental Crown
Attaching the new dental crown is the final step to replacing a single tooth. The permanent tooth consists of a new porcelain crown that is placed and bonded for life. No additional treatment is needed following placement.
Step 04: The End Result
You should expect the new tooth to fit and function just like a natural tooth. Do your usual dental hygiene to keep the tooth and gum around the dental implant clean.
Multiple Tooth Replacement
Our multiple tooth replacement replaces anywhere between two teeth and several teeth. The multiple tooth replacement may be a better option than a traditional bridge, depending on your needs. Consult your dentist to find out which option will work best for your situation.
For a multiple tooth replacement, one or more implants are placed in a row, with a bridge placed on top. A bridge consists of two or three crowns bonded together.
Multiple Tooth Implant Procedure
Step 01: Prep and Consultation
Let’s say that three teeth at the back of the mouth are missing. That is when a consultation for multiple tooth replacement would be a great idea. Dr. West or Dr. Johns will evaluate if we can place implants, and discuss if you would like a permanent restorative option.
Step 02: Implant Placement
The dental implants are placed first, and all of the implants are normally placed in a single visit. We may place a temporary bridge at that time to provide functionality while you wait for your permanent teeth to be placed.
Step 03: Dental Bridge
The final step involves attaching the bridge to the dental implants. Once the dental implants have integrated with the jawbone, usually about 1–2 months after the dental implant placement, the permanent bridge is placed.
Step 04: The End Result
With implant dentistry supporting your new permanent bridge, you can handle all the pressure that your strong, natural back teeth did before. You can have a stable and secure solution that allows you to eat what you want.
Full Arch Replacement (Implant Dentures)
Full arch denture implants are a great substitution for traditional dentures for more stability and less hassle. We offer dentures permanently attached to your implants, so they don’t need to be removed ever. You can also ask about removable, implant-supported dentures.
Consult your dentist to find out if you qualify for full arch replacement.
Full Arch Implant Procedure
Step 01: Prep Work
First Dr. Johns or Dr. West will determine if you are a candidate for multiple implants by evaluating your jaw bone density and oral health. If we decide a full arch restoration is for you, we will decide how many implants to place and exactly where to place them using advanced CBCT scanning technology. We will also begin to create your new set of personalized permanent dentures.
Step 02: Implant Placement
The first step is to place dental implants that act like the lost tooth roots. In a full arch replacement, five dental implants are used. Temporary teeth are attached that enable you to eat and function normally while you wait for the permanent bridge to be installed.
Step 03: Dental Bridge
The permanent bridge is securely installed on top of the dental implants after allowing a few months for the implant to integrate with the jawbone. With a full arch replacement like this, you will visit our office 2–3 more times before the bridge is fully attached.
Step 04: The End Result
Your new teeth are designed to look and feel natural. People around you may not even be able to tell you’ve had dental work done! Our patients who have had traditional dentures before getting a fixed bridge anchored by implant dentistry often describe implant replacements as a positive experience!
Alternatives to Traditional Dentures
Traditional dentures may not be the best option for every patient. They are loosely placed on top of the gum to cover lost teeth.
The advantages include low cost and easy installation. However, disadvantages may include discomfort when eating, aesthetic concerns, affected speech, sore gums from denture movement, and reduced sense of taste with upper dentures.
Here are some alternatives to consider:
Partial Dentures Supported by Implants
One alternative to a fixed bridge is to place a removable overdenture, which can be anchored on dental implants. This will replace just a couple of teeth with a removable bridge but with the oral health benefits of implants.
A Full Denture Attached to Implants
This is a removable full denture that is connected to a ball or bar attachment and then anchored by two or more dental implants at the front of the jaw. The dental implants help keep the denture in place, providing functionality and comfort.
If you would like to learn more about alternatives to traditional dentures, call our office. We would be happy to help you find the option that is best for you!
Give Us a Call Today!
To learn more about our dental implant options, give Dr. West or Dr. Johns a call at our Boulder area practice in Lafayette, CO. We also serve Broomfield. You can also explore our website to learn more about every aspect of dental implants.