Dental implants are composed of three parts: a titanium post, a connector piece known as an abutment and an implant restoration (a crown, if replacing a single missing tooth). As the tooth replacement method most closely resembling natural tooth structure, implants have become the preferred method of replacing missing teeth and offer the greatest benefits of all replacement options. Some of these benefits include:
- Performance and stability (due to integration with jaw bone)
- Functional ability (enjoy favorite foods without worry)
- Esthetic appearance (natural look and feel of implant restorations)
Implant posts, acting as the roots of the teeth, are surgically placed within the jaw bone and given time to integrate into the surrounding structure, a process that typically takes three to six months. Once integration (referred to as “osseointegration”) with the bone is complete, the implant posts can be restored with specially designed prosthetics, such as implant crowns, bridges or dentures. Certain implant procedures allow for immediate delivery and use of restorations, even during the osseointegration process.
All-on-4® Implants
The All-on-4® implant technique provides a convenient option for those desiring immediate full arch tooth replacement. A significant advantage of All-on-4® implants is that they can be placed in patients who have low bone density and volume. The technique is performed by placing four dental implants at strategic angles within the arch, utilizing the areas when bone support is greatest. Same-day attachment of a functional prosthesis is a feature of the All-on-4® option. Patients missing a full arch of teeth can restore their ability to once again enjoy favorite foods, speak with confidence and achieve the smile they deserve.
All-on-6® Implants
When seeking full arch tooth replacement, many individuals choose the All-on-6® dental implant technique. All-on-6® is a permanent alternative to traditional dentures, eliminating the need for paste or adhesive and providing stability and comfort. A temporary or an existing denture is used to restore six dental implants inserted strategically around the arch. Areas having the highest level of bone are selected for implant placement. Even patients who have suffered bone loss due to injury, prolonged tooth loss or periodontal disease can benefit from this dental implant solution. All-on-6® implants and the prosthesis attaching to them are delivered the same day and ready for immediate use.
Implant Supported Dentures
Implant supported dentures offer fixed and removable tooth replacement options. Unlike traditional denture appliances, dentures supported by dental implants do not move around in the mouth when speaking or eating; nor do they require adhesive, relines or frequent replacement. Advantages of implant supported dentures over traditional dentures include:
- Greater comfort and permanence
- Secure attachment to implants, no movement of prosthesis
- Retention and health of jaw bone
- Improved ability to eat and speak with ease
The process for implant supported dentures begins with placing three or more dental implants around the arch, to which the denture will attach by either a ball or bar retention mechanism. The ball attachment operates on a ball-and-socket function, providing significant stability as the base of the denture snaps on to the implants. Ball-retained dentures allow for an open palate design when replacing missing teeth in the upper arch. Bar-retained dentures also offer security and stability, and attach by clipping to a thin metal bar running the distance between each implant.
Teeth-in-a-Day
When tooth loss is anticipated, such as in the case of planned tooth extraction, Teeth-in-a-Day procedures are often favored. Teeth-in-a-Day implants (also referred to as Immediate Load implants) offer the opportunity to replace teeth the same day extractions occur. Even if tooth replacement takes place at some point after tooth loss, Teeth-in-a-Day options may still be viable solutions for addressing missing teeth.
To perform the procedure, the dental professional will determine the most favorable location for each implant. A fully functional temporary restoration or prosthesis is attached the same day and utilized during the implant integration process (which allows the implant posts to become one with the bone tissue). Integration requires approximately three to six months to achieve, after which the temporary is removed and the permanent restoration or prosthesis attached. Teeth-in-a-Day implants provide several solutions for permanently replacing missing teeth in adults. While single teeth can be replaced with same-day procedures, full arch tooth replacement if often accomplished with Teeth-in-a-Day.