Reviewed by Dr. Matthew Young, DDS
Dental implants are revolutionizing the world of restorative dentistry and smile reconstruction. They are a permanent and effective solution to replace missing or damaged teeth.
In this blog post, we will discuss what dental implants and crowns are and the step-by-step process of attaching a crown to a dental implant.
Table of Contents
- What Is a Dental Implant and Why Do You Need One?
- Attaching a Crown to a Dental Implant: The Process
- Dental Implant Maintenance
- Dental Implants San Francisco, CA
What Is a Dental Implant and Why Do You Need One?
A dental implant is a tooth root replacement that supports an artificial tooth like a dental crown. It replaces missing or severely damaged teeth that cannot be restored with crowns alone. Implants also help maintain jawbone structure and prevent adjacent teeth from shifting.
The dental implant consists of three parts:
- The implant screw: a titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone. It acts as an artificial tooth root and fuses with the bone over time, creating a strong and stable foundation for the replacement tooth.
- The abutment: the connector piece that sits on top of the implant screw. It connects the implant to the crown.
- Dental crown: the visible part of the dental implant that looks and functions like a natural tooth. It is typically made from porcelain or ceramic materials to match the color and shape of your surrounding natural teeth.
For a more in-depth explanation, read our blog, Understanding Dental Implant Parts.
Key Takeaway
A dental crown is attached to an implant through a multi-step process that includes placing a healing cap, abutment, and, finally, the crown itself. Two primary methods are used for the final attachment: screw-retained or cemented crowns.
Attaching a Crown to a Dental Implant: The Process
The journey to a new and improved smile involves a few key steps:
Step 1: Healing Cap
A healing abutment, or healing cap, is placed on the implant screw following the implant placement surgery. This allows the gum tissues to heal around the dental implant post correctly. The dental abutment healing time may vary, but it typically takes around 1-2 weeks.
Step 2: Abutment Placement
Once osseointegration is complete, the dentist will remove the healing cap and attach an abutment to the implant screw. The abutment serves as a connector between the implant and the crown, providing support and stability for the artificial tooth. The abutment may require additional time to heal and integrate with the gums before the next step.
Step 3: Temporary or Permanent Crown Placement
The dentist will take an impression of your surrounding teeth, which will then be used to create a custom-fit implant crown. Some cases may require a temporary crown first, while others may proceed directly to permanent crown placement.
Step 4: Screw-retained or Cemented Crowns
There are two methods for attaching the crown to the abutment: screw-retained or cemented crowns. Each has its benefits.
- Screw-retained crowns: the crowns are attached with a small screw that is tightened into the implant post. This method allows for easy removal and adjustment if necessary.
- Cemented crowns: dental cement is used to hold the crown in place. This method provides a more permanent solution and blends in with the neighboring teeth.
All-On-4 Dental Implants
The All-on-4 implant technique is an exciting advancement in tooth replacement. It allows patients to leave the dental clinic with a complete set of teeth on the same day. This approach, known as ‘teeth-in-a-day,’ offers convenience and immediate results.
The All-on-4 procedure involves strategically placing four or more angled titanium posts into the jawbone, which serves as stable anchors for an entire arch of prosthetic teeth. Following the secure placement of the implants, a temporary full-arch bridge is attached, providing immediate functionality and enhancing the patient’s appearance.
Although patients leave with teeth, this is a temporary bridge that will need to be replaced. The permanent bridge will be placed once the healing process is complete and the implants have fully integrated with the bone. This healing period ensures long-term stability and optimal oral health.
Dental Implant Maintenance
Caring for your dental implants and crowns is as important as caring for your natural teeth. Here are some tips to keep your implant restorations in tip-top shape:
- Brush and floss regularly, including around the implant crown.
- Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid damaging the implant or abutment.
- Avoid biting down on hard or sticky foods that may damage the crown or implant.
- Schedule regular check-ups with your dentist to monitor the health of your dental implants.
Dental Implants San Francisco, CA
Dental implants are a reliable and long-lasting solution for missing or damaged teeth. By understanding how a dental crown is attached to a dental implant, you can feel confident and prepared for your restorative dental journey.
Our highly skilled dentists at Young Dental SF Group are dedicated to providing high-quality dental implants in San Francisco. Using advanced implant technology, we restore smiles with permanent and natural-looking solutions. Our experienced team ensures a comfortable experience, offering various restorative dentistry services for optimal oral health.
Contact us today to schedule your dental implant consultation and start your journey towards a healthier, more confident smile! Call (415) 392-8611 or complete the online booking form.