After the surgical placement of titanium implants, which act as artificial tooth roots, and the required osseointegration process, the next step is the fabrication of the implant-supported prosthesis. These fixed prostheses can be classified into two types: screw-retained or cement-retained. Factors such as the number of implants, gingival height, and the size of the tooth to be restored are carefully evaluated by the dentist to decide which type is most suitable. Both screw-retained and cement-retained prostheses can utilize materials such as traditional metal-supported porcelain or zirconia-supported porcelain for the final restoration.
Once the osseointegration process is complete, the healing cap placed during the surgical stage is removed, and a gingival shaper is attached to the implant. Using scanning components attached to the implants, a 3D digital scan of the patient’s mouth is taken to capture precise measurements in a fully digital workflow. These digital impressions are transferred to the laboratory, where the final prosthesis is designed and fabricated.
The primary risk to implant-supported fixed prostheses is periodontal issues. Therefore, maintaining excellent oral hygiene is critical. Brushing for at least two minutes twice daily should never be neglected. Regular use of a water flosser is strongly recommended to ensure thorough cleaning around the implant and surrounding tissues. If using a manual toothbrush, it is important to brush in a sweeping motion from the gum line toward the tooth to effectively remove plaque. Regular dental check-ups every six months are crucial to monitor the condition of the prosthesis and surrounding oral structures.
