Getting a Dental Implant Crown

Implants are one of the various restorative procedures that a dentist can carry out. They can be inserted as a single unit to replace a tooth. They can also be a component of bridges to replace more than one missing tooth side-by-side. In addition, implant dentures help replace the entire dentition on either one or both jaws.

What do you need to know before getting an implant crown?

There is certain information about implants you must be made proxy to before having an implant procedure. Knowledge of these will determine your treatment option based on personal preference and professional recommendation.

Implant materials

Implant crowns come from different materials. The costs of these different materials vary. Implants can be made from:

• Zirconia
• Composite resin
• Gold
• Stainless steel
• Porcelain

Screw-retained and cement-retained crown implants

Cement-retained implants utilize dental cement to attach the abutment (which serves the root) to the visible crown. This type of implant is more aesthetic than screw-retained implants.

There is less risk for post-procedure inflammation in screw-retained implant crowns as cement is not used in this case. Since this type of implant exists as a unit, it is easy to remove if there's a need for a repair or replacement.

Classification based on attachment

Based on attachment, there are:

• Subperiosteal implants
• Endosteal implants
• Zygomatic implants

Subperiosteal implants are inserted into the jawbone. Endosteal implants are usually placed on the jawbone. They are useful in patients with low jawbone density. Zygomatic implants are typically attached to the zygomatic bone (cheekbone) and not the mandible or maxilla.

After having this information, you should discuss your preference with your dentist, and with their professional insight, you can both choose.

Why get an implant crown?

• It enhances appearance
• It eases speech
• It prevents inflammation that can result from food particle collection in tooth gaps
• It makes bite convenient
• It prevents facial deformities
• It improves confidence

Who needs to get a dental implant crown?

Anyone can get an implant crown. People who have:

• Have one or more missing teeth
• Sufficient bone density to secure an implant
• Good oral health and acceptable oral health history
• Are eligible to under oral surgery