Dental implants represent the gold standard for tooth replacement, offering a permanent solution that closely mimics the function and appearance of natural teeth. The process involves surgically placing a titanium post into the jawbone, which serves as an artificial tooth root. Once the implant integrates with the surrounding bone tissue through a process called osseointegration, it provides a stable foundation for the final tooth-like restoration.

While some dental practices handle both the surgical placement and restoration phases, at Imagine Dentistry, we focus exclusively on the restoration portion of implant treatment. This means we work above the gum line to create and attach the visible portion of your new tooth – the crown, bridge, or denture that you’ll see and use every day. Our team collaborates with trusted oral surgeons and periodontists in the Charlotte area who handle the surgical placement of the implant itself.

The restoration process begins with detailed digital impressions using our advanced iTero Lumina scanner –which eliminates the need for the old, uncomfortable, gooey, traditional impressions! This cutting-edge technology creates precise 3D images of your teeth and mouth, allowing us to design restorations that fit perfectly and look completely natural. The digital approach also streamlines the entire process, reducing the number of appointments needed while ensuring superior results.

Dental implant restorations offer numerous advantages over traditional tooth replacement options like removable partial dentures or traditional tooth-supported bridges. Unlike partial dentures that can slip or click when you speak or eat, implant-supported restorations remain securely in place, allowing you to enjoy all your favorite foods without worry. The titanium implant post stimulates the jawbone just like a natural tooth root, preventing the bone loss that commonly occurs after tooth extraction. And, with implant restorations, you do not have to take them out at nighttime to let your gums rest (which is necessary for a partial denture). Your smile stays in your mouth!

In the case of a single missing tooth, restoring the site with a dental implant and crown is often the most conservative solution. It takes a one-tooth problem and fixes it with a one-tooth (implant) solution, leaving adjacent teeth untouched. Conversely, to restore the same missing tooth with a traditional bridge requires trimming down the neighboring teeth. It turns a one-tooth problem into a 3-tooth solution. From an aesthetic standpoint, modern implant restorations are virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth. Using high-quality materials and precise digital technology, we create crowns and bridges that match the color, shape, and translucency of your existing teeth. The result is a seamless smile that looks and feels completely natural.

Implant restorations also support your overall oral health in ways that other replacement options cannot. Traditional bridges require reshaping healthy adjacent teeth to serve as anchors, while partial dentures can place stress on neighboring teeth through metal or acrylic clasps. Dental implants are self-supporting, preserving the integrity of your remaining natural teeth.

With proper care and regular dental visits, dental implant restorations can last for decades. Many patients find that the long-term value of implants makes them a smart investment in their oral health and quality of life. The stability and durability of implant-supported restorations eliminate many of the ongoing maintenance issues associated with removable appliances.

The implant restoration process typically begins several months after the initial surgical placement, allowing adequate time for the implant to integrate with your jawbone. During your initial consultation, Dr. Coambs and Dr. Boucher will evaluate your specific situation using digital imaging and clinical examination to determine the best approach for your restoration.

Once your implant has fully healed and integrated, we’ll begin the restoration phase with digital impressions using our iTero Lumina scanner. This technology captures detailed images of the implant site and surrounding teeth, creating a precise digital model for your custom restoration. The entire scanning process is comfortable and efficient, typically completed in just a matter of minutes.

Your custom crown, bridge, or implant-supported denture is then fabricated using these digital specifications to ensure an exact fit and natural appearance. We work closely with skilled dental laboratories to create restorations that meet our exacting standards for both function and aesthetics. Once your restoration is ready, we’ll schedule a final appointment to attach it to your implant and make any necessary adjustments for optimal comfort and fit.

If you’re considering dental implants or have already had implants placed and need restoration services, Imagine Dentistry offers the advanced technology and experienced care you deserve. Dr. Coambs and Dr. Boucher combine decades of clinical experience with state-of-the-art digital technology to deliver implant restorations that look, feel, and function like natural teeth. Our commitment to personalized care means we take the time to understand your unique needs and create treatment plans designed specifically for your situation.

Don’t let missing teeth continue to impact your daily life and confidence! Our team is ready to help you explore how dental implant restorations can transform your smile and restore your quality of life. Contact Imagine Dentistry today at (704) 540-7600 or request an appointment online to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a complete, confident smile.