Implant Restoration: Repairing and Maintaining Your Long-Term Tooth Replacement

Dental implants have a typical lifespan of 20-30 years or longer, with some patients keeping them for the rest of their lives. But like any investment in your oral health, they require ongoing care and, at times, restorative treatment.

Whether you’ve had your implant for years or are considering one soon, understanding how to maintain and restore it when needed can help protect your smile for decades. At Earwood Dentistry in Raleigh, implant restoration isn’t just about fixing what’s broken, it’s about preserving comfort, function, and confidence through every stage of treatment.

What Is Implant Restoration and When Is It Necessary?

Implant restoration refers to repairing or replacing the crown, bridge, or denture that rests on the implant post. Although the titanium post that integrates with your jawbone is designed to last a lifetime, the attached restoration may need to be replaced every 10-15 years due to accidents or natural wear and tear. You might need implant restoration if you notice:

• A loose or wobbly crown
• Visible cracks, chips, or discoloration
• Difficulty chewing or biting
• Gum irritation or sensitivity near your implant

At Earwood Dentistry, Dr. Amy Earwood and Dr. Matthew Garcia use advanced imaging like iTero digital scanning to assess the stability of your implant and customize a restorative solution that’s both functional and natural-looking.

The Importance of Routine Maintenance for Dental Implants

Even though implants are not susceptible to cavities, the surrounding gum tissues and bone still require consistent care. Routine maintenance not only extends the life of your restoration but also protects the long-term health of the implant structure itself.

Our patient-first approach emphasizes preventative care to minimize the need for future repairs. As part of your ongoing maintenance plan, we recommend:

• Twice-yearly dental checkups and professional cleanings
• Using soft-bristled toothbrushes and fluoride toothpaste
• Flossing daily to remove food particles from between teeth and implant restorations
• Nightguards for patients who grind their teeth (bruxism)

These simple habits help maintain implant integrity and identify concerns early, before they become more complex restorations.

What to Expect During an Implant Repair at Earwood Dentistry

When a restoration needs attention, patients at Earwood Dentistry can expect a process that blends comfort with precision. Our team, led by the experienced Dr. Earwood, evaluates every case individually, ensuring that both function and aesthetics are fully restored. The implant restoration process may include:

• Digital scans to capture detailed images of your implant and bite
• A custom-designed crown or bridge built for comfort and visual harmony
• Chairside adjustments for proper alignment and bite function
• Ongoing care guidance to prevent future damage

Whether you received your implant here at our office in Raleigh or elsewhere, our team can repair or replace your existing restoration with care that reflects our warm, family-focused philosophy.

Why Trust Our Raleigh Dental Team for Implant Restoration?

Implant care shouldn’t be rushed, it requires an experienced touch and a genuine investment in each patient’s long-term oral health. At Earwood Dentistry, we believe our relationship-first model sets us apart. 

Many of our patients have trusted us across multiple generations for this very reason. Here’s what makes our implant restoration services different:

• Over 20 years of hands-on implant experience from Dr. Amy Earwood
• Thoughtful consultations that prioritize your comfort and personal goals
• Use of modern tools, like digital X-rays and iTero scanning, for exceptional accuracy
• Warm, honest communication every step of the way

Whether you're experiencing complications or simply want to refresh your existing implant crown, you can trust our Raleigh team to provide personalized solutions that last.

Schedule Your Implant Restoration Consultation in Raleigh

If your implant crown is damaged or you're unsure how to care for your restoration, reach out to Earwood Dentistry today. We welcome patients from throughout Raleigh and beyond to experience our patient-first approach to implant restoration. Call (919) 847-8413 to request your appointment and take the next step toward a fully functional, confident smile.