From a single tooth to a full arch — beautiful, functional crowns built on your implants.
The Crown on Top of the Implant
What we do and what we hand off
A dental implant is typically a two-part process. The first step is placing the implant, which may be done in our office or, in some cases, referred to a trusted local specialist depending on your individual needs. Every patient is carefully evaluated, and our doctors will determine the best approach for you. The second part is the restoration the crown, bridge, or full arch that goes on top and that work is completed here. It’s some of our favorite dentistry because it brings together both function and artistry.
How a single-tooth restoration goes
After the implant is placed and fully integrated, we capture a digital scan of the area and design your restoration to fit your bite, gum line, and surrounding teeth. Whether the implant was placed in our office or by a trusted specialist, the process moving forward is the same. A custom crown is then crafted by the lab and designed to attach precisely to the implant. At your delivery appointment, we try it in, make any final adjustments, and seat the restoration. The goal is for it to look, feel, and function just like a natural tooth.
Full arch (all-on-X) restoration
For patients who have lost most or all of the teeth in an arch, all-on-X uses a small number of implants to support a full set of fixed teeth. The surgical placement is done by your specialist; we plan and place the final restoration. It is one of the most life-changing things dentistry can do and it deserves to be planned carefully, crafted with precision, and executed well.
What is implant restoration?
Implant restoration is the part of dental implant treatment that places the visible tooth the crown, bridge, or full arch on top of the implant root that was surgically placed. At Tatum Dentistry, we plan and place the restoration. The surgical placement of the implant is done by a specialist we work with closely.
Does implant restoration hurt?
The restoration appointments themselves are comfortable. There is no surgery on our side we are working with the implant that has already healed. We use local anesthesia when needed and offer nitrous oxide in every room. Most patients describe the visits as easier than expected.
How long does the implant restoration process take?
Single-tooth restoration usually takes two to three visits over a few weeks once the implant has integrated. Full arch cases involve more planning and several appointments your specialist handles the surgical phase, and we handle the restorative phase. We will give you a full timeline at the planning visit.
See Why Charleston Loves Us
➔ Two kind and highly-skilled dentists
➔ Decades of experience
➔ A team that’s been together a long time
➔ Personal care with your comfort in mind
Frequently Asked Questions
Why don’t you place the implants here?
Years ago we made the deliberate choice to focus on what we do best — the restorative side. Surgical implant placement is a different skill set, and our patients are best served by a trusted specialist. We coordinate the surgical and restorative phases so the work feels coordinated, not handed off.
How long do implant restorations last?
An implant root, when well-cared-for, can last decades — many last a lifetime. The crown on top will eventually need maintenance or replacement, similar to a crown on a natural tooth. We watch the work at every cleaning and let you know when anything needs attention.
Will my implant crown match my other teeth?
Yes. We shade-match and shape the crown to blend with the teeth around it, paying attention to the gum line so it looks like the tooth has always been there. The match is one of the most satisfying parts of restoring a single front tooth.
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