Whether you have lost one tooth or multiple teeth, we can help. At Southern Arizona Periodontics, we offer multiple teeth replacement using dental implants. A dental implant consists of three parts: the implant screw, the abutment (support structure), and the restoration. The implant is placed into the jawbone and attaches to the abutment. The abutment links the screw to the restoration. An implant can be used to support a single crown, a fixed bridge, or an entire arch of prosthetic teeth. With recent technological advancements, implants have become the industry standard for teeth replacements.
The Dental Implant Process
The dental implant process begins with a consultation appointment. During your consultation, we will determine if a multiple implant restoration is right for you. We will also discuss the restoration options available for your particular situation.
After you decide that implants are the correct choice, we can begin the process. During your first surgery, we will make multiple incisions and place each implant. The length of the procedure depends on the number of implants you need. Once each implant is in place, we will suture the incisions.
Each implant is securely embedded into the jawbone. Over the next several months, the implant will fuse to your bone through the process of osseointegration. Osseointegration is responsible for the many benefits of dental implants, including the ability to support multi-tooth restorations.
Once osseointegration is complete, we can place your abutments. Each incision must be reopened to expose the implant. After the abutments are in place, we will take a molded impression of your mouth. This impression is sent to our dental laboratory, where they will fabricate your final restoration. This process can take several weeks to complete. During this time, we will give you a temporary restoration to protect your implants and avoid complications with chewing, eating, and talking.
The material we use to fabricate your final restoration depends on the type of restoration you receive. If you are receiving a bridge, it is typically made of porcelain or zirconia. If you are receiving an implant-supported denture, it may be made with an acrylic base and ceramic teeth. Once your restoration is complete, we will remove the temporary and check the margins of your new teeth. After we have achieved the perfect fit, we will permanently attach the restoration to your implants.
Multiple Implant Vs. Other Restorations
Before multiple implant restorations, patients had limited options, including traditional bridges, partial dentures, and complete dentures. While they can be an effective way to treat tooth loss, these options come with some complications. Bridges and partial dentures rely on the adjacent teeth for support. This can lead to complications with structural damage and decay if they are not properly maintained. Complete dentures also come with complications. Many patients with dentures experience issues with speaking, chewing, and maintaining a healthy bone structure. Your multiple implant-supported restorations will look, feel, and function just like your natural teeth! Talk with our specialists to learn more about the benefits of dental implants!
Schedule Your Consultation
If you would like to learn more about multiple teeth replacements with dental implants, call 520-809-7703, and schedule your consultation today!
