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Implants

A Complete Guide To Crowns And Implants

Take your smile from damaged to strong with crowns and implants. Book a consultation with one of Yorkshire Dental Suite’s friendly specialists today.

Dental implants and crowns go hand in hand. Together, they replace broken, worn and missing teeth with a beautiful healthy smile that lasts 20+ years with care. So how do these treatments work together?

What is a dental implant?

A dental implant is a permanent tooth replacement that gives you back the smile of your youth. From a single implant to a full arch, this versatile treatment allows you to eat, speak and laugh without pain or embarrassment. A standard dental implant is made up of multiple components:

  1. Post: The part of the implant that is surgically inserted into the jawbone.
  2. Abutment: Connects a bridge and/or crown to the implant post.
  3. Crown: The visible part of the implant that resembles a natural tooth.
  4. Bridge: Holds multiple crowns in place.

What is a dental crown?

Crowns are an essential part of a dental implant, but they are also an individual treatment. When used on its own, a crown replaces damage on the visible portion of a tooth, leaving the root intact.

It is an extremely versatile procedure, helping to treat severe tooth decay, dental injuries and weak, worn down teeth. Dental crowns are typically made out zirconia and porcelain (as these materials look the most natural), but gold and silver alternatives are available too.

What is the purpose of a dental implant crown?

First of all, why put a crown on an implant in the first place? The crown is the visible part of the treatment. It not only enhances the appearance of your smile, but also restores the ability to bite and chew. Used for both single tooth implants and dental bridges, a crown hides the implant abutment.

Placing crowns on dental implants

To help you better understand how dental crowns and implants work, we have broken down the treatment surgery step-by-step. The procedure is carried out in just one day, giving you a same-day smile transformation.

  1. You are given your choice of sedation or local anaesthesia
  2. If still present in the mouth, the tooth is removed
  3. A small incision is made in the gums
  4. A dental implant is then screwed into the jawbone
  5. An abutment is fitted on top
  6. Your temporary crown and/or bridge is fitted (treatment dependent)

Crowns are attached to the abutment using two methods. The first is by screwing the two components together. Alternatively, the crown is fixed into place using a strong dental cement. We only use the first method, as it is helps the crown last much longer.

How long does a crown last on an implant?

A tooth implant is able to last 20+ years if well cared for, whereas crowns typically last around 15 years (sometimes longer). A crown is more susceptible to damage as it is the exposed part of the implant, so it may need replacing.

The material in which your crown is made out of also influences the longevity of the treatment. For example, if you choose porcelain-coated zirconia (sometimes called ceramic dental implants), this hard-wearing material can provide 15+ years of wear.

On the other hand, silver crowns are not as strong, meaning they will most likely not have the same strength and durability. Finally, the lifespan of your treatment is largely influenced by the immediate and long-term aftercare of the patient.

Dental implant aftercare: Do’s

Dental implant aftercare: Don’ts

Maintain a great oral hygiene routine to prevent implant infection and/or failure

Use your teeth as tools, e.g., to tear off clothing tags or bite nails

Be considerate of your diet, e.g., hard foods may chip your crown

Smoke or vape – prevents discolouration of the implants, infection and failure

Attend regular check-ups with your dentist and hygienist

Ignore pain, swelling or continuous bleeding

Wear a mouthguard if you play sports or grind your teeth (bruxism)

Poke the implant area with your tongue or fingers (while healing)

Conclusion:

Crowns and implants dentistry can be truly life changing. If you are tired of the everyday discomfort and embarrassment you are facing, take the first step to a healthier smile and book a consultation now.