Dental implant restorations refer to crowns, bridges and dentures which
are either cemented, screwed or snapped onto dental implants. An
impression of the implant is taken, allowing the dental laboratory to
fabricate the implant restoration.
Dental implants permanently replace missing teeth. Implants consist of
titanium posts, topped with artificial restorations. The posts are
surgically placed in the jawbone to function as a tooth "root.” The
posts extend from the jawbone through the gums, and are topped with
restorations, such as crowns or bridges, that resemble natural teeth
both in appearance and function.
After the implant post surgery, the implant posts need to heal for
approximately three to six months. During this healing period, the titanium post fuses with your jawbone to provide a
solid foundation on which to place the artificial tooth restoration.
Once the implant post has successfully integrated into the jawbone, and
the area is healed, Dr. Herod or Dr. Gillespie will begin work on your
restoration. They may suggest placing a crown, or perhaps a bridge,
depending on your needs. Dental implants can even anchor a full or
partial set of dentures.