Replacing Missing Front Teeth with Dental Implants: Our Step-by-Step Approach
Replacing multiple missing front teeth with a dental implant bridge can be a complicated process. There are a lot of moving parts, from the initial examination and surgical planning to temporary teeth, tissue healing, and the final restoration. At Nelson Family Dental in Redding, California, we believe that the best results come from carefully planning each step before treatment begins.
I'm Dr. Chris Nelson, and in this article, I want to explain how we approach anterior implant bridges, why we coordinate closely with our surgical specialists, and why temporary restorations are such an important part of achieving a natural-looking, comfortable result.
“I’m in love with my new smile! It feels like ME!”
Phase 1: Planning and Preparation
We begin with a comprehensive dental examination, clinical photography, and digital 3D scans. These records help us plan the final appearance and function of the implant bridge before surgery.
We coordinate with local specialists, including Team Perio (Team Periodontics) in Redding, to evaluate implant placement and prepare temporary tooth replacements for use during healing.
Phase 2: Implant Surgery and Healing
Following dental implant placement by the surgical specialist, patients return to Nelson Family Dental for an evaluation of the surgical sites and temporary restoration.
Over the following months, the implants integrate with the surrounding bone while the gum tissue heals and changes shape. We monitor this process and adjust or replace temporary appliances when necessary.
Phase 3: Custom Temporary and Final Implant Bridge
Before fabricating the final implant bridge, we create a custom implant-supported temporary bridge. This important step allows us to evaluate the patient's smile, tooth shape, bite, and gum tissue contours.
Once the appearance and function are approved, we take new digital scans and use the refined design to fabricate the final implant bridge. An occlusal guard is also made to help protect the completed restoration.
Dental Implant Restorations in Redding, California
At Nelson Family Dental, we provide comprehensive restorative and cosmetic dentistry for patients throughout Redding and Shasta County. Our collaborative approach to implant dentistry emphasizes careful planning, clear communication, and individualized treatment.
