What Is a Dental Implant Restoration?
A dental implant restoration is the visible portion of an implant-supported tooth or denture. Depending on your needs, the restoration may be:
- A single crown attached to one implant
- A bridge supported by multiple implants
- An attachment or housing used with a removable overdenture
After the implant has healed and bonded with the surrounding bone, we evaluate the implant and surrounding tissues, take digital records, and plan the restoration.
We use digital impressions, intraoral scanning, and imaging to help evaluate the shape, bite, fit, and position of your restoration. We also carefully check how it meets the neighboring teeth so it feels comfortable when you chew.
Can We Restore an Implant Placed by Another Provider?
Yes. Ristow Dental can restore implants that were placed by another dentist, oral surgeon, or implant provider.
We review the available implant records and X-rays to identify the implant system and plan the appropriate restoration. When needed, we coordinate with the provider who placed the implant to obtain additional information or address surgical or soft-tissue concerns.
Benefits of Implant Restorations
A properly designed implant restoration can help:
- Restore comfortable chewing function
- Improve the appearance of a missing or damaged tooth
- Support clearer speech
- Avoid altering healthy neighboring teeth in some cases
- Improve the stability and function of an implant-supported denture
- Minimize areas where food can collect around the restoration
- Create a natural-looking result that blends with nearby teeth
How the Implant Restoration Process Works
Your treatment plan depends on the type of implant and restoration you need, but the process may include the following steps.
1. Evaluation and Records
We begin by reviewing your implant information, existing X-rays, and the condition of the implant and surrounding tissues.
2. Digital Scans and Bite Records
We take digital impressions and bite scans to help plan the size, shape, and position of your restoration.
3. Restoration Design and Fabrication
Your restoration is designed to fit your implant and work comfortably with your bite. In some cases, a temporary restoration may be used while the permanent crown, bridge, or attachment is being made.
4. Final Fitting
When the restoration is ready, we check the fit, bite, contact with neighboring teeth, and gumline. Small adjustments may be made before the restoration is cemented or secured to the implant.
Digital X-rays and a careful clinical evaluation may also be used to assess the restoration and surrounding structures.
What to Expect at Ristow Dental
We want you to understand each step of your care. During your visit, our team will explain what we are evaluating, how your restoration will be designed, and what to expect after it is placed.
Depending on the stage of treatment, your appointment may include an exam, digital imaging, impressions or scans, a trial fitting, or final placement.
Comfort amenities are available to help make your visit more relaxing, including aromatherapy, massage chairs, blankets, chapstick, and free Wi-Fi.
Before you leave, we will also review how to care for your restoration and answer questions about cleaning, maintenance, and follow-up visits.
Frequently Asked Questions About Implant Restorations
Do you place dental implants at Ristow Dental?
No. Ristow Dental focuses on implant restorations rather than surgical implant placement. If you need an implant placed, we can work with the surgeon who performs that portion of your treatment and use the necessary records to plan your restoration.
Can you replace a crown on an existing dental implant?
We can evaluate an existing implant crown and determine whether a new restoration is appropriate. The recommended treatment will depend on the condition of the implant, crown, surrounding tissues, and implant components.
Can you restore an implant that was placed somewhere else?
Yes. We can restore implants placed by another provider when the necessary implant information and records are available. We can also coordinate with the original implant provider when additional details are needed.
How long does an implant restoration appointment take?
A fitting or adjustment appointment typically lasts 45 to 90 minutes. The length of the visit may vary depending on the type and complexity of the restoration.
Will my implant restoration look natural?
Our goal is to create a restoration that blends with your surrounding teeth. We evaluate shade, shape, contour, bite, and fit when planning the final restoration.
What if my implant restoration feels uncomfortable after it is placed?
Contact our office if your bite feels uneven or the restoration feels uncomfortable. We can evaluate the bite, contact points, and surrounding tissues and make adjustments when appropriate.
What is the difference between a dental implant and an implant restoration?
A dental implant is the post placed in the jawbone. The implant restoration is the crown, bridge, or denture component that attaches to that implant and provides the visible, functional part of the tooth replacement.
Schedule an Implant Restoration Consultation in Oconto Falls
If you already have a dental implant and need a crown, bridge, overdenture attachment, or evaluation of an existing restoration, contact Ristow Dental to schedule a visit.
Dr. Ronald Ristow and our team provide implant restoration care for patients in Oconto Falls and nearby communities, with a focus on clear communication, comfortable treatment, and restorations designed for reliable everyday function. Contact Ristow Dental to request an appointment today.
