The phrase "dental implant" refers to the fixture that is surgically implanted in the jaw to replace the root of your missing tooth. These fixtures can be used to support a variety of restorations, from crowns replacing a single tooth to full dentures. Dr. Tyler is among the leading dental implant providers in Stuart, FL, and as a prosthodontist, he is committed to providing patients with exceptionally-crafted implant-supported restorations.
We offer the following types of dental implant restorations at Stuart Prosthetic Dentistry:
Implant-Supported Crowns
Implant-supported crowns, or single-tooth dental implants, are the closest match for your natural tooth, with the root replaced by an implant fixture and the tooth above the gum line replaced with a dental crown. When only one tooth needs to be replaced with a dental implant or when multiple teeth need to be replaced but they’re not adjacent to each other, an implant-supported crown is used.
Implant-Supported Bridges
An implant-supported bridge is a more cost-effective approach than replacing each individual tooth with its own dental implant and crown if you have three or more adjacent teeth that need to be replaced. This restoration typically uses two dental implant fixtures to replace the two outermost missing teeth; these fixtures are used to support a porcelain bridge, or prosthetic teeth.
Implant-supported bridges are a better option than traditional dental bridges because they minimize bone loss in the jaw and provide more strength and stability. Furthermore, unlike traditional bridges, implant-supported bridges do not require the support of adjacent teeth, which means they do not put stress on the abutment teeth and leave them at risk of damage.
Implant-Retained Dentures
Instead of being held in place with adhesives, implant-retained dentures are supported by dental implants. Because these dentures can be taken out and put back in by the patient, they’re often called snap-in dentures. Implant-retained dentures feel more natural than traditional dentures because they offer much more stability—you can eat your favorite foods and speak without any impediment. Since these dentures are held securely in place with dental implants, they never slip or rub against the gum tissue, causing painful sores. Implant-retained dentures can be complete or partial and they give you a more youthful appearance by preventing and reversing jawbone loss.
Implant-Supported Fixed Complete Prostheses
This is an option to explore if you need to replace all of the teeth on the upper or lower arch (or both). Four or more implant fixtures support a complete arch of fixed replacement teeth. An implant-supported fixed complete prosthesis is an option for many individuals who are not candidates for traditional implant-supported dentures, and it can be done in a single day. Unlike implant-retained dentures, this type of prosthesis is fixed, which means it can only be removed by a dentist.
Learn More About the Types of Dental Implants
Wondering which of these dental implant options is best for you? The best way to find out is to come in for an appointment. Contact us today at 772.286.1606 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Tyler.