Implant Crown
Dental implants are a dental prosthesis used to replace one or more missing teeth. Implants can even be used to support a full denture on one or both arches. Dental implants are composed of three parts including the implant, the abutment, and the implant crown or other implant restoration such as a bridge or denture.
Traditional restorations like dental bridges or dentures lie solely above the gumline and can eventually lead to the deterioration of the jawbone. This deterioration is why many patients with dentures have to have their denture replaced every 10 years or so. Their face changes as their bone deteriorates and the denture no longer fits properly. Implants on the other hand promote bone regeneration because the implant acts as the root of a tooth and helps stimulate bone growth.
Not everyone is a candidate for dental implants but your dentist, along with an oral surgeon will evaluate the area to be treated to determine if you are a good candidate. The oral surgeon will also evaluate your bone level and perform any necessary bone grafts before placing your implant.
How are implants placed?
The oral surgeon will make a small incision in your gum tissue and drill a hole into your jaw bone where the implant will be placed. They will secure a temporary abutment, or healing cap, over the implant so the area can heal and the implant can integrate for up to six months. After the implant is fully integrated, your oral surgeon will clear you for restoration.
At this point, your dentist will take over. Your dentist will take an alginate impression of your entire mouth in order to pour up models for the dental lab to use when they fabricate your custom implant abutment and crown. The abutment is the connecting piece that secures your implant crown to the implant. The implant crown will be made from porcelain and will match the shade of the rest of your teeth. Your dentist will place the crown on the abutment using either cement or an implant screw. If your crown is screwed on, the access hole in the crown will be filled with the same tooth colored composite material that is used to fill a cavity.
What are the advantages of a dental implant?
Dental implants are more expensive in comparison to other restorative options but what you need to take into consideration is that implants can easily last a lifetime with proper care and maintenance. You will likely need to have the implant crown replaced at some point, but overall, implants are the healthier and more aesthetically pleasing choice.
Implants are a great option to restore your smile whether you need one tooth replaced or all of them. Discuss your treatment options with your dentist so they can work with you to find the best treatment for your individual case.