One of the most effective restoration options for those with missing teeth is a dental implant with a crown that is firmly rooted in the jawbone. The dental implant crown feels and looks like your natural teeth hence enabling you to smile again with confidence. To learn more, read on and then speak to the proficient dentists at La Puente Dental Implant Center to determine if this is the best option for you.

What are Dental Implant Crowns?

A dental implant crown is the finishing touches after a dental implant has been installed. It is placed on the abutment fitted on the external-facing end of the implant. It looks like a real tooth.

A dental crown can be made from either ceramic, gold, silver, metal alloys, or porcelain. While porcelain and ceramics offer the most natural look, gold provides the most durable type of crown you can get.

Some of the benefits you can expect to receive from your dental implant crown include:

  • Improved self-esteem and appearance – With a dental implant crown, not only will you have confidence in your appearance but also your smile will be cosmetically enhanced. It will help you shine in all you do.
  • Low maintenance - Since dental implant crowns are firmly placed on the implant, they cannot be removed and have few maintenance requirements. That means less money incurred on oral treatment.
  • Comfortable - A crown is standalone and has no impact on your tissues and natural teeth. Additionally, it will neither slip nor move in your mouth. It allows you to eat, sneeze, kiss, laugh, and speak without worrying the crown will become loose.
  • Improved speech.
  • Durability.
  • Convenience.
  • Improved oral health.

Different Types of Dental Implant Crowns

Another way to differentiate between dental implant crowns is the way the restoration is attached to your implants. The most common types of dental crowns include:

  • Cement-retained implant crown - A cement-retained crown is placed above the abutment. Dental cement is used to keep it permanently attached to your abutment. It provides increased visual aesthetics as well as a robust attachment.
  • Screw-retained implant crowns - This type of dental crown comes with a lingual and occlusal screw. It comes with a hole on the occlusal side or lingual part of the device. The hole makes it possible for the implant to connect with the restoration with the help of a fixation screw. The screw is attached to the abutment's external-facing end. The configuration makes the removal of prosthetics for cleaning, restorations, and repair easy.

Screw-retained Crown vs. Cemented Crown

A screw facilitates the attachment of the crown onto the implant. An implant should be placed strategically to permit the restoration to connect to it. It allows the crown to emerge through your gum tissues in the correct direction. Often the abutment (connecting support structure) is used to permit this connection and transition.

Dental implant components disassemble. That means the parts can be removed, replaced, or repaired without damaging your restoration or implant. A dental implant crown is not as durable as a dental implant. It may require to be repaired or replaced from time to time, and this can be achieved with ease if it is attached with a screw.

Loosening of the screws that attach the restoration of the dental implant occasionally occurs. Replacing or retightening the dental screw when the implant is screw-retained is a simple procedure.

However, this is not the case with a cemented restoration, and in the worst scenario, a screw hole will have to be put in to take away the crown and abutment from the dental implant. Creating the access hole in your front teeth may affect your crown's appearance. It's hard to tell where the screw is. Dental crowns removed this way have to be remade. A weaker dental cement could be used to ease the removal. However, it can result in an insecurely attached implant crown to fall off your abutment when using.

Most patients object to screw-retained dental crowns since they can be unattractive. That is why a crown is cemented to an abutment whenever the screw will show. A cemented restoration can accommodate many implant positions and cover an abutment screw hole completely.

A screw-retained restoration is common in regions where the screw access hole is not conspicuous, such as the biting surface of a back tooth. The composite tooth-colored filling material can make the access hole invisible to many people.

Also, cementation can lead to complications. Removal of the excess dental cement can be hard, especially if the crown-to-implant linking is in the tissues.

A screw-retained dental implant crown is safer in the following conditions than a cemented crown:

  • Immediately installed implants - A screw-retained crown is easy to manage if the implant is installed on the same day. Usually, a dental implant is left for months to bond with the jawbone before a dental crown is placed. However, in some instances, the crown can be placed simultaneously with the implant. Here a screw offers more benefits compared to cement. Sometimes the dental cement can lead to inflammation if it flows below your gums or can be lost during the six-eight-week healing period.
  • Long-term treatment planning - Given the durability of a dental implant, it can last longer than natural teeth, which are prone to periodontal disease or decay. In this case, the implant is used to support bridges if more natural teeth are damaged. Sometimes the abutment and implant of an existing crown could be fused to the bridgework. A screw is used in reusing and retrieving existing implant restoration.
  • Temporary implant crown - For aesthetic purposes, a temporary crown is used to mold and shape the soft gum tissues. The easiest method is using the screw-retained crowns. The screws set the restoration and gradually expand and accommodate your gum tissues.

Both cement and screw-retained crowns have pros and cons. Your dentist should be able to recommend the best option for you.

How Long Does It Take for Your Dental Implant to Heal Before Placing the Crown?

After installing the implant, the duration needed to complete the recovery process differs from one patient to the other. However, certain factors affect the healing process. Discussed below is an overview of the recovery process and the duration needed to pass before crown placement.

Osseointegration Should Take Place Before Placing Your Dental Implant Crown

Osseointegration is the process in which the structural and functional connection happens between the bone, which is the implant's surface. The bone fuses directly to the dental implant to offer enough stability that supports your tooth. Your dentist will then install the implant in the bone.

Typically, osseointegration takes approximately four (4) to six (6) months. After osseointegration happens, the dentist will attach the crown to your tooth, permitting you to chew without any difficulty.

Inadequate Jawbone

If you have a failing tooth that needs to be removed, your dentist will extend the implant process since the bone should heal before the dental implant procedure. A bone graft could be essential within the tooth socket to keep the bone open and permit for easy placement of the implant later.

It is possible to install your implant the same day as your tooth removal. However, not all patients are perfect candidates for immediate dental implants. The most effective method to tell if you qualify for a dental implant is scheduling an appointment with your dental expert.

Treatment Time Depends on Your Needs

The speed at which your mouth heals plays a significant role in determining how much time should pass before the crown placement. Your overall health, healing rate, the number of teeth, the specific tooth replaced determine your dental implant crown timeframe.

How to Take Care of Your Dental Implant Crowns

Although the success rate of a dental implant crown depends on where in the jawbone, the implant and crown were placed, the success rate is often ninety-eight percent. And with proper care discussed below, a dental implant crown can last a lifetime.

Whether you have dental implant crowns or think you could qualify for one, it's essential to know how to take care of them. Dental implant crowns don't require any special maintenance different from the natural teeth. Below you will learn practical tips on how to keep your dental implant crown in good condition.

  • Maintain a dental hygiene routine - The best way to take care and maintain your dental implant crown is to ensure your dental hygiene is top-notch. By brushing twice a day, you will not only preserve the integrity of your teeth but also keep your mouth and gums healthy. If the gums are unhealthy, chances are your body will reject the implant, or the dental implant will be damaged.
  • Eat a balanced diet - For your dental and overall health, you should take a balanced diet that consists of vegetables, proteins, fruits, minerals, and vitamins. By keeping the body healthy, your jawbone (where the dental implant is), will remain healthy and strong. With a strong jawbone, your teeth and gums will be healthy hence offering support to the dental implant, remaining teeth, and the crown.
  • Visit your oral expert regularly - After receiving a dental implant, you should visit the dentist at least twice a year. These regular dental visits can assist in identifying potential oral issues before they get out of hand. During the visit, the dentist will check for the implant's function, possible infections, rejection of the dental implant, and poor oral hygiene.
  • Floss - Floss at least once a day. Ensure you insert the floss in-between and under the implant area. To remove bacterial and food particles, wrap the floss around the implant and move it up and down.
  • Rinses - Avoid using dental dentifrice or any rinse with hydrogen peroxide since it can react with titanium and discolor the restoration.
  • Fluoride - Use prescription strength fluoride to stop gum inflammation caused by bacteria.
  • Occlusal guards - Grinding and clenching exerts pressure and can cause various jaw and gum complications, not forgetting damage to the opposing teeth. It is, therefore, essential to have an occlusal guard. Also known as a nightguard, an occlusal guard will protect the teeth from excessive wear, fractures, and cracks. It is designed from your teeth's dental model. The night guard prevents your teeth from grinding while sleeping. Additionally, it guides your jaw so that your muscles can relax, and bite challenges won't trigger bruxing.

Habits that Can Damage Your Dental Implant Crown

Crowns are not as durable as your natural healthy teeth. Therefore, to prolong the crown longevity, it is wise to stop engaging in the following habits: 

Chewing Ice

Since ice is sugar-free and natural, most people think it is harmless. However, munching on hard and frozen ice cubes can chip or crack your crown. If you are an ice lover, it is recommended to suck the cubes instead of chewing them.

Additionally, avoid chewing on your pencil while concentrating on your studies or work.

Engaging in Sports Without a Mouth Guard

When playing a contact sport such as hockey or football, do not get in the game without a mouthguard. Without a mouth guard, your crowns can get chipped or knocked out when the action gets rough. You can get the mouthguard from your local store.

Tongue Piercing

A tongue piercing could be trendy, but biting down on the metal stud can damage your dental implant crowns. Lip piercings also pose the same risk. Additionally, your mouth is a haven for bacteria. Therefore, a piercing increases the risk of sores and infections. It is wise to discuss the health complications with the dentist before having the piercing.

Grinding Your Teeth

Do you clench or grind your teeth while sleeping? Over time, this habit can wear down, break, or crack your natural teeth and implant crowns. Constant clenching or grinding could even loosen the implant, putting the crown at risk. It's as a result of sleeping habits and stress and is difficult to control. Eating soft foods during the day and putting on mouth guard at night can reduce the damage caused by bruxism.

Opening Objects Using Your Teeth

Opening plastic packaging or bottle caps using your teeth can be convenient. However, it can cause your crowns to chip or crack. Your teeth should only be used for chewing food. Instead, use bottle openers and scissors. 

Smoking

Smoking is not friendly to teeth, but it is worse for the dental implant. It discolors the dental implant crown. Moreover, it puts you at a higher risk of gum disease, making it more difficult for your jawbone to grow and bind with your dental implant.

What To Do When Your implant Crown Breaks, is Loose or Falls Off?

Damage to the dental implant crown will not only affect your appearance but also make chewing difficult. Although the crown is synthetic, most of the factors that damage the implant could also damage the crown.

Common causes of dental implant crowns issues include:

  • Trauma - Blows to your face, falls, and accidents.
  • Grinding your teeth.
  • Faulty crowns - Although malfunctioning crowns are rare, they could affect the ability to use the dental implant.
  • Biting/chewing hard objects and foods like love nuts and ice.
  • Using teeth to open packages and bottles.
  • Biting your fingernails.
  • Broken abutment - Abutment is a small screw that connects the crown to the implant. A damaged or loose abutment can affect the crown's stability.
  • Deterioration of the cement used for bonding.
  • Dental implant failure.

If your crown breaks or feels loose, you should visit your dentist straight away. The type of crown repair you require depends on the cause and degree of the damage.

If your crown breaks, ensure you keep the pieces in your pouch and carry them when you visit your dentist. Don't replace the dental crown on your own. It won't be a firm hold, and you might swallow the crown once it falls out of place.

If you have only chipped the crown, the dentist will improve the tooth's appearance by smoothing the rough edges.

If the dental implant or abutment is broken, you will require a replacement. The dentist will take an impression of your mouth and send it to a dental lab. You will put on a temporary crown for approximately two weeks until the replacement is ready. Sometimes, it might be essential to replace your abutment.

If the dental implant has fallen out with the crown, talk to the dental expert immediately. The implant site could still be used for another implantation. If you require bone grafting, your doctor will advise you accordingly.

After the crown is replaced or repaired, it is recommended to wear a nightguard. The night guard will absorb shock as well as protect the teeth from the pressure caused by clenching or grinding.

How Much Does a Dental Implant Cost?

Determining the cost of dental implant crowns is complicated since the procedure varies primarily on every patient's needs. That means several factors should be put into account. The most common factors include:

Dental Implant Crown Material Quality

The crown material you choose will also affect the cost. The most pocket-friendly dental implant crowns are made of resin, while high-end materials include porcelain or ceramic fused with metal.

The Location of the Implant Crown

Another factor to put into consideration is the location of the implant crown. A back-tooth implant crown is less costly compared to a front tooth crown. It is because:

  • The front tooth is more visible, and due to the esthetic issue, the doctor will charge more.
  • There are fewer spaces involved that make the placement procedure difficult.

The Number of Medical Practitioners Involved

If there are other medical experts involved other than your dentist, the odds are the cost will be high. Right from the beginning, you have an anesthesiologist and lab technician to think of.

Additional Services and Elements

By now, you have a rough idea on how much a tooth implant crown costs and probably you think you know everything you should know. Well, this isn't the case. X-rays and CT scans are some of the common elements and services that most patients forget to include in the total bill and come as a surprise in the end.

Dental Implant Crown Insurance

Although dental implant crown placement is an investment to your self-confidence and oral health, you need to know what is involved in the procedure as well as what you will pay out-of-pocket before undergoing the procedure.

Your insurance company should be able to give you a definite answer on the different aspects of the dental implant covered by the insurance plan. Nevertheless, the American Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons urges that both your dental and medical insurance can play a significant role in implant surgery depending on the tooth loss' nature and your insurance plan. For instance, if a medical condition caused the tooth loss, the medical insurance could pay for some of the aspects of the treatment like the implant crown.

Be sure to ask your dentist for the treatment plan details before contacting your medical and dental insurance companies to learn the aspects they cover.

Moreover, check your annual limit on the insurance, since the dental implant crown placement can be expensive. If that's the scenario, split the treatment between December and January. That way, you will not suppress the limit and will pay minimal out-of-pocket payments.

If your insurance provider does not cover dental implant crown, do not give up. The American Academy of Implant Dentistry advises that you can request your insurer to offer an allowance that covers the cost of dental bridges or dentures.

If you don't have insurance, this could be the ideal time to get a plan which suits your budget. HealthCare.gov could be an excellent place to begin the search for cost-effective plans. Moreover, you can talk to your dentist about alternative financing options, such as dividing the entire cost into installments. Any experienced dentist should be in a position to link you up with firms that offer oral care financing.

Find an Experienced Dentist Near Me

A dental implant crown is a restoration that is placed on the top of a dental implant. Colored and shaped like your natural teeth, it restores the appearance and functionality of teeth. At La Puente Dental Implant Center, we can evaluate both your overall health and dental health and discuss your needs and goals with you in detail. If you're considering a dental implant crown, you can trust our experienced dentists to offer you uncompromising care. To book your initial consultation with us, contact us today at 626-995-0456.