Usually, a dental implant and crown are considered separate restorations. For instance, dental crowns are primarily designed to be fitted to a tooth with an existing root structure. They sit over the whole tooth surface protecting a weakened or damaged tooth. A dental implant, on the other hand, is designed to replace a missing tooth root. However, both dental crowns and implants can also work together to form the perfect collaboration when filling a missing tooth gap. In this post, we explore that synergy and why it works so well…
Firstly, why choose a dental implant?
If you are looking to replace a missing tooth gap (and you definitely should) then you have several options open to you. A conventional bridge or partial denture, for example, provide a non-surgical, quick-fix solution while dental implants offer more of a long-term investment. So while initially at least, you may be saving money by opting for the former, there are many advantages to playing the long game. For example…
- A dental implant provides a permanently fixed appliance that becomes a natural part of the mouth
- Patients can expect dental implants to last for several decades or more (that’s twice as long as conventional bridges or dentures)
- Dental implants halt the natural bone loss process that occurs when teeth are missing – they are the only form of restoration that can do this.
- Implant-based restorations provide a hassle-free tooth replacement solution
- A dental implant can restore full-bite functionality so patients can eat whatever they like without restriction.
But perhaps the biggest benefit of choosing a dental implant is its versatility. In addition to replacing a single tooth on a ‘like for like’ basis, dental implants can also be used to replace several teeth or an entire arch of teeth where necessary and this is where its affiliation with dental crowns work together.
Implant and crown – How they work together?
We’ve already mentioned that dental crowns need to be fitted to a tooth with an existing tooth root structure but how is this the case when a tooth is missing?
Because the dental implant provides both the body of the tooth and the root structure. When an implant is anchored down into the jawbone at the missing tooth site it tricks the body into thinking that it is indeed a tooth root. As a result, the surrounding bone tissue will start to fuse with the implant in a process known as osseointegration. This is a vital part of the process and over time (typically 3-6 months) it forms a super-strong platform that can act as a fully stabilised substitute tooth. Dental crowns are then used to top the implant, fill the gap and provide both aesthetics and bite functionality. Collectively, they’re considered the perfect combination with dental implants – the unsung heroes – providing the bulk of the strength and workload and dental crowns providing the beauty and aesthetics.
How are implants and crowns attached?
When dental implants are placed they first need to stabilise. They are hidden below the gum line so they can’t be seen. Then after the osseointegration phase has been completed the implant is uncovered and an abutment is fitted. This is a small visible peg that sits on top of the gum line. The abutment has a dual purpose role. Firstly it acts as a connector between the implant and crown and secondly it acts as a ‘cushion’ or shock-absorber dissipating any biting force received and spreading it down through the implant itself and into the jaw.
Once the abutment is permanently fixed into position then the visible crown is attached to complete the tooth.
Patients should note that in many cases, dental crowns are likely to be temporary versions until permanent versions are made so they won’t be as natural-looking and as comfortable as permanent dental crowns. However, once permanent versions are fitted, any missing teeth replacements should blend in seamlessly with your existing smile.
Typically, dental crowns are bonded onto the abutment using a special bonding agent but in addition, crowns can also be screwed into position – although this isn’t such a widely used method. Either way, you will be left with a hassle-free, fully functioning tooth that can last for many years.
About dental crowns
Now you know how the implant and crown work together, it’s worth taking a closer look at the dental crown itself. After all, it’s the visible part of the restoration that everyone will see so it needs to be right.
Modern dental crowns can be made of several materials including ceramic, porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) and zirconia. They are strong, durable and can be colour-matched to blend in seamlessly with your existing teeth. They can either be fabricated in a centralised dental lab or are milled using 3D CEREC technology in the dental practice itself. Either way, time should be taken to ensure that comfort and aesthetics are of the highest order and if this is the case, they will look and feel just like your natural teeth.
If you would like to find out more about a dental implant and crown and how it can help you, get in touch with No Gaps Dental. With 15 dental practices spread across the Sydney Metropolitan area, we provide convenience and affordability without compromising on quality.
Call us on (02) 8806 0227 or book a smile consultation online at a location of your choice.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks.