An implant crown is the visible part of a dental implant – essentially, the prosthetic tooth that replaces one that is missing. While this natural looking replacement tooth is the reason that dental implants are so popular, as one would be hard pressed to spot the difference between a dental implant and an existing natural tooth, it is only the top layer of an intricate system meant to mimic the natural tooth and root system of a dental implant. It is because of this underlying structure that the dental implants are as durable and long-lasting as they are. In most cases, these implants will last a lifetime; for that reason, your dental team with work very hard to ensure that the implant crown that presents the visible face of your dental implant is the perfect fit for you.
What is a dental implant composed of?
A dental implant is composed of three main parts: an implant fixture, an abutment, and the implant crown. The implant fixture is an integral structural component of the dental implant. It is a small titanium piece or screw that is installed into the jawbone of your mouth. Once installed, your gums will need time to heal and the implant fixture itself will also need time to meld with the bone in a process known as osseointegration. Once this process has been completed, the implant fixture will have become thoroughly embedded in the jawbone much like the roots of your teeth. This is what gives the dental implant as a whole the tremendous strength and durability for which they are known.
Once the implant fixture has merged with the bone and the soft tissues have healed, the second piece called the abutment will be installed. This piece is attached to the implant fixture; it may be screwed into the implant fixture in some cases or cemented to it with adhesive in others. Regardless of how it is attached, this is the part of the dental implant upon which the implant crown rests above the gumline. While the tissues heal following this procedure, a temporary crown is commonly placed where the permanent crown will eventually be placed in order to promote healing and create a surface with which to chew and eat normally.
As described above, the implant crown is the topmost and only visible part of a dental implant. It is essentially the “face” of your dental implant and is designed to fit seamlessly into your smile. It is created using an impression of your mouth so that it approximates the size and shape of the rest of your teeth and is carefully designed with your comfort and appearance in mind.
What kinds of implant crowns can I choose?
In addition to being durable and functional replacements for missing teeth, dental implants are also customizable. They come in either removable or fixed forms depending on one’s personal preferences surrounding the ability to remove them.
Removable implant crowns are just that – removable crowns that snap in and out of place to allow their wearer to remove them either for a thorough cleaning or to repair a possible break or chip. Fixed implant crowns, however, are designed to be permanently attached to the abutment and are not removable for any reason. While some prefer the flexibility of a removable implant, fixed or permanent implants are most widely used. If a break or chip should occur, any repair can be undertaken in the same way that any other tooth would be treated.