FAQs About Dental Implant Crowns

Dental implant crowns are the restorations that replace missing teeth when implants are used. An implant is an artificial tooth root that is inserted into your jaw and left there to bond with surrounding bone tissues. A dental implant crown is placed on the restoration once the bonding process, called osseointegration, is complete.

Frequently asked questions about dental implant crowns

Thinking about getting implants? Here are some things you should know about the dental implant crowns that go with them:

1. What are implant crowns made out of?

Porcelain is the most common material used to make implant crowns. It shares similar properties with teeth like a natural white color and translucence. Other materials implant crowns can be made out of include ceramic zirconia or porcelain fused with metals like silver or gold.

2. How is an implant crown different from a conventional one?

Conventional crowns are placed on real teeth that still have their natural root structure intact. These are designed to be caps that go over the visible part of a tooth. Crowns are supported by implants serving as artificial roots. An anchor connector and abutment are usually used to attach the crown to the implant.

3. How long does the process take?

For most patients, getting an implant takes an average of 2 to 6 months. This is the amount of time it takes for the patient to heal from the installation of the implant, while the implant bonds with surrounding bone tissues. It varies for each person based on factors like their health. Patients typically get a temporary abutment and crown while they wait for their permanent implant crown.

4. How do I take care of an implant crown?

The same way you take care of your real teeth. Implants and the crowns that come with them do not require any form of special care. Good oral hygiene is enough to keep the restoration well maintained. The crown can last up to 25 years, while the implant can last a lifetime.

5. Who qualifies for implants?

People who are healthy enough to undergo minor oral surgery are great candidates for implants. Health issues like diabetes make it harder to heal. Such patients will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis to determine if it is safe enough for them to proceed with surgery.

Patients should also have enough depth in their jawbone to hold implants in place. Bone grafts can be used to thicken jawbone tissues so patients can proceed with implant surgery.

6. Is the procedure painful?

No. Patients are injected with a local anesthetic prior to the surgical placement of the implant so they do not feel anything as the dentist works. It is normal to experience some soreness after the surgery when the anesthetic wears off. This can be managed with prescription or over-the-counter painkillers.

Request an appointment here: https://familydentistphoenix.com or call Phoenix Family Dentistry at (602) 547-9007 for an appointment in our Phoenix office.