A general dentist completes dental implant plans by attaching a custom restoration that looks and feels like a natural tooth. This visible part of the process is what truly brings a smile back to life after tooth loss occurs. While the groundwork happens below the surface, the restoration handles the daily tasks of chewing and speaking. Here are three implant restorations our dentist can place.
When only one tooth is missing, a custom-made crown offers a simple and effective solution to fill the gap. This piece matches the specific shade and shape of the surrounding enamel, so it goes unnoticed to the naked eye. Dental crowns prevent nearby teeth from shifting out of place, keeping the entire mouth better aligned.
The general dentist will work with the patient to choose a shade that blends with the surrounding teeth and has a slightly translucent appearance, like natural teeth. While some practices host on-site milling machines, most will need to gather measurements or a mold of the patient's mouth and send the info to an off-site lab for crown fabrication. Once ready, the dentist will bond the crown to the implant and, if necessary, make small adjustments to promote a smooth, natural bite.
A bridge provides a stable way to replace several consecutively missing teeth (up to four). Instead of using a separate piece for each missing tooth, this restoration spans the entire area. The bridge remains fixed in place, offering much more stability than a traditional removable partial appliance that might slip. A general dentist evaluates how the bridge aligns with the jaw to ensure it feels natural when speaking and eating. This choice helps maintain the natural shape of the face while providing essential support for the lips and cheeks. As with dental crowns, the dentist will send the crown to an off-site lab for fabrication before bonding it to the implant.
For those who need to replace many teeth at once, an implant-supported denture offers a life-changing level of security and comfort. Standard dentures often move or irritate the gums, but a fixed restoration stays firmly anchored to the implants for a much more reliable fit. This added stability allows patients to enjoy a wider variety of foods without the fear of an appliance shifting at the wrong moment.
A general dentist ensures the denture supports a balanced bite and creates a healthy, youthful appearance. Note that all restorations, regardless of type, will take approximately two weeks to return from the off-site lab. However, if the general dentist has on-site milling equipment, they will receive their permanent implant restoration during the same appointment.
Selecting the right restoration depends on the number of missing teeth and the overall goals for the health of the smile. Our general dentist guides the process to ensure the final result is both structurally strong and aesthetically pleasing. If you are looking to complete the implant process, contact our office for more information or to schedule an appointment.
Request an appointment here: https://www.mouthdocs.com or call Piper Family Dentistry at (727) 564-9677 for an appointment in our Largo office.
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