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Understanding Implant-Supported Crowns: A Comprehensive Guide

28 January 2025
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At Onyx Dental Care, we’re dedicated to providing the best solutions for restoring your smile and oral function. Implant-supported crowns are a reliable and advanced option for replacing missing teeth, offering durability and a natural appearance. This guide will help you understand the materials, benefits, risks, and considerations associated with implant-supported crowns.

What Materials Are Used in an Implant-Supported Crown?

An implant-supported crown consists of two main components:

  1. Implant: Made of titanium, this serves as the artificial root inserted into the bone.
  2. Crown: The visible part of the restoration, which can be made from:
    • Porcelain
    • Gold alloy (commonly gold, platinum, palladium)
    • Porcelain fused to an inner core of gold alloy
    • Zirconia metal oxide

These materials are chosen for their strength, durability, and aesthetic qualities.

What Are the Benefits of an Implant-Supported Crown?

Implant-supported crowns offer numerous advantages:

  • Natural Appearance: Restores the size, shape, and color of your teeth for a seamless smile.
  • Improved Function: Restores your ability to chew and speak properly.
  • Preserves Oral Health: Prevents adjacent teeth from shifting and maintains jaw alignment.
  • No Damage to Neighbouring Teeth: Unlike bridges, implant-supported crowns don’t require drilling down healthy teeth.

What Are the Risks of an Implant-Supported Crown?

While implant-supported crowns are highly effective, potential risks include:

  • Cementing Challenges: Difficulty in removing cement below the gumline can lead to tissue inflammation.
  • Repair and Maintenance: If repairs are needed, the crown may be damaged during removal.
  • Implant Failure: Rarely, the implant may not adhere to the bone and require replacement.
  • Other Risks: Food entrapment, tissue irritation, and aesthetic challenges with matching adjacent teeth.

Regular dental check-ups minimize these risks and help maintain the crown’s longevity.

What Are the Alternatives to an Implant-Supported Crown?

If an implant-supported crown isn’t suitable for you, alternatives include:

  • Conventional Tooth-Supported Bridges: Requires altering adjacent teeth to support the bridge.
  • Removable Partial Dentures: A less permanent option that can be removed.
  • Leaving the Space: May lead to shifting teeth and bite misalignment over time.

Your dentist will help determine the best option based on your needs and oral health.

How Can an Existing Bite Affect an Implant-Supported Crown?

Bite forces play a significant role in the success of an implant-supported crown:

  • Excessive or Uneven Forces: Can cause chipping, metal wear, screw loosening, or gum and bone loss.
  • Teeth Grinding (Bruxism): May lead to premature failure of the crown or implant.

Addressing bite issues before placing an implant is essential for long-term success.

Post-Treatment Considerations

After receiving an implant-supported crown, proper care is essential:

  • Avoid Abnormal Activities: Don’t use the crown for non-dental purposes (e.g., opening bottles).
  • Maintain Good Oral Hygiene: Brush and floss to prevent food entrapment and gum recession.
  • Regular Check-Ups: Monitor the crown and implant to address any issues early.
  • Expect Minor Changes Over Time: Gum recession or natural aging may alter the appearance slightly.

An implant-supported crown is a durable, functional, and aesthetically pleasing solution for replacing missing teeth. At Onyx Dental Care, we’re committed to ensuring a successful outcome and guiding you through the process with expert care.

If you’re considering an implant-supported crown or have additional questions, contact us today or schedule a consultation. Let’s help you restore your smile and confidence with the best dental solutions available.