Michigan Dental Implant Impression Comparisons

Taking an impression is the first step in producing a model to indicate the positioning of Michigan dental implants and/or abutments in a patient's mouth. A device which facilitates the replication of implant positions on the study models is called and impression coping and is often required during the impression stage of placing dental implants.

Impressions may be taken in one of two ways: at the implant level or at the abutment level. Placement of an implant analog, a device which mimics the implant on the study model, must occur during an implant-level impression, while abutment level impressions require placement of an abutment analog or a device which mimics the abutment.

Which impression technique is used depends on the preference of the restorative dentist and also varies by implant system. With nonfriction implant systems, impressions can be taken at either the implant or abutment level. With internal friction abutments, delivery of the abutment to its final position is necessary before the final impression is taken.

Comparison of Implant-Level and Abutment-Level

	Implant-Level Impressions	Abutment-Level Impression
Ease of localization	Requires subgingival placement of copings	Easier, because margins are often supragingival
Impression copings	Necessary	Conventional impression without copings is available in some cases
Abutment selection and preparation	On a model in the laboratory	Can be done in the mouth, chairside
Abutment modification	Not needed once delivered	May be needed in the mouth
Custom abutment	Available	Not available (unless an implant-level impression was taken first).
Interim and final crown fabrication	Can be performed in the laboratory, together with the abutment selection and preparation	Chairside relines of provisional restorations and final impressions often necessary

*Source: http://online.lexi.com

Implant-level Impressions

Implant-level impressions are similar for any type of prosthesis. There are two main types of impression copings – closed tray and open tray. Closed tray or transfer impression copings remain on the implant complex after the impression is removed and need to be placed into the impression manually. Open tray or pickup impression copings are automatically retained in the impression after removal. This usually requires the manipulation of a long screw that is not present in transfer copings.

For more information on implant impression comparison, call (248) 357-3100 and talk to an implant specialist. If you're a general dentist who would like to see a demonstration of taking implant impressions in the Oakland, Wayne, or Macomb County Michigan area, feel free to contact Joseph Nemeth, DDS & Associates by phone or email jrn@drnemeth.com. Also look for us on the web at www.drnemeth.com.

A 3-Unit Bridge or Dental Implant

A 3-Unit Bridge or Dental Implant - Which is Right For You?

Each and every patient deserves a magnificent smile. Due to the incredible advances in aesthetic dentistry, there's no need for anyone to settle for less. With dental implants, missing teeth can now be easily, comfortably and most importantly, permanently replaced.

3-unit Bridge - The Traditional Option
Traditionally, a bridge has been the standard of care for replacing a missing tooth. Constructed of metal sub-frames and tooth-colored porcelain, bridges are fabricated to approximately match the natural shade of your existing teeth.

A bridge uses the teeth on either side of the missing tooth as support for the artificial tooth that replaces the missing natural tooth. The goal of a bridge is to restore chewing function while achieving an acceptable aesthetic outcome.

Unfortunately, since the jawbone under the replacement tooth is no longer being stimulated by being involved in the chewing function, bone is often resorbed into the body. This process creates a slowly-growing gap between the replacement tooth and the gums.

Key Features

• Slightly less expensive than a dental implant
• Achieve acceptable cosmetic outcome
• Restores chewing function

Drawbacks

• Requires healthy adjacent teeth to be ground down
• Potentially increases risk to the teeth that have been ground down
• Bone resorption results in compromises cosmetics over time
• Life span of only 5 to 7 years traditionally
• May contain metal

Single Tooth Implant - The State of The Art Solution

Dental implants can provide a more advanced replacement option for replacing a missing tooth than a traditional bridge, while preserving adjacent teeth.

Dental implants are small titanium screws designed specifically to replace a natural tooth root. Dental implants provide a highly biocompatible surface that encourages bone to attach to the implant during healing through a process called osseointegration. This process of bone attachment ensures long-term results.

Dental implants do not require adjacent teeth to be ground down or modified in any way. The implant also provides the added benefit of creating stimulation to the underlying bone.

Restoration with all-ceramic components can produce a beautiful, natural looking, translucent replacement tooth that looks almost identical to the tooth that is being replaced!

Key Features:

• Adjacent teeth remain untouched - no grinding down required
• Underlying bone integrity is preserved because stimulation is restored
• Helps to maintain long-lasting, cosmetically pleasing results
• Titanium is strong and is naturally accepted by the body resulting in a high level of osseointegration

Drawbacks

• Slightly higher cost than a bridge

When deciding between a dental implant and a three unit bridge, it is important to be educated about all of the benefits associated with choosing a dental implant. When you lose a tooth, your jawbone can shrink, aging your appearance prematurely. Implants help to prevent this premature aging.

Like natural teeth, your newly restored dental implant will be strong, stable and secure so you can comfortably eat all your favorite foods. Dental implants are a long-lasting solution - often lasting an entire lifetime.

And perhaps most importantly, your beautiful new teeth can give you back the confidence you may have lost when you lost a tooth. They can transform your daily life and can lead to a happier you!

If you'd like to know more about deciding between a dental implant and a three-unit bridge, visit implant manufacturer, Nobel Biocare on the web at www.nobelsmile.com. For an implant dentist in the Oakland County, Wayne County, or Macomb County, Michigan area, visit Dr. Nemeth and Associates on the web at www.drnemeth.com or call (248) 357-3100 to schedule a consultation visit.