Implant-Based Dental Restorations
Once a dental implant has successfully integrated with the jawbone, the next step is the fabrication and placement of the prosthetic restoration — the visible part of the tooth replacement. The quality of this restoration determines both the aesthetics and the long-term functional success of the implant treatment.
Types of Implant-Supported Restorations
Single crown: The most common implant restoration. A single crown replaces a single missing tooth and is attached to the implant via an abutment. It functions and is cleaned exactly like a natural tooth.
Implant-supported bridge: When two or more adjacent teeth are missing, implants can support a bridge without the need to involve adjacent natural teeth. This preserves the neighbouring teeth entirely while providing a fixed, non-removable restoration.
All-on-4 / All-on-6: A full arch of teeth can be supported on just 4 or 6 strategically placed implants. This approach is particularly valuable for patients with full edentulism (all teeth missing) or for those whose remaining teeth are beyond saving. The restoration is fixed — it does not come out like a denture — and provides dramatically improved function and confidence.
Implant-retained overdenture: A removable denture that clips securely onto implants. More stable than a conventional denture, while still being removable for cleaning. Particularly suitable for the lower jaw.
Material Choices
Implant crowns and bridges are typically fabricated from zirconia (for strength and biocompatibility) or lithium disilicate (for maximum aesthetics in the front teeth). The choice depends on the location, loading requirements, and aesthetic priorities of each case.
The Fitting Appointment
At the fitting appointment, the restoration is trialled, checked for fit and bite, and adjusted as necessary before permanent fixation. The clinician provides oral hygiene instructions specific to implant care.
At Smilecraft, we treat every prosthetic case as an opportunity to create a result that exceeds the patient's expectations — functional, beautiful, and built to last.
