Why You Should Consider Implant Crowns for Those Missing Teeth
Implant crowns, also called dental implants or implant-supported crowns, offer a great solution for many patients with missing teeth. For natural-looking, functional prosthetic teeth, implants are the gold standard. Our patients at Beckham Square Family Dental report that, although they’re a significant investment, they’re worth it for their look, function, and longevity. They also note the health benefits for the rest of the mouth and jaw.
Why consider implant crowns to fix a toothless gap? We briefly discuss the implant crown placement process and cover the pros and cons. At Beckham Square Family Dental, we make sure our patients have the information they need from a trusted local family dental provider to decide whether implant crowns are right for them.
How Does an Implant Crown Work?
An implant consists of a post, usually made of titanium, that acts like the tooth root. The dental surgeon first places this post into the empty tooth socket. After the jawbone fuses around the implant post and healing occurs, the surgeon places an abutment on top of the implant at a follow-up appointment. The abutment connects the porcelain crown to the implant, which now replaces the tooth root.
A patient can get one implant, several implants, or get them to support a dental bridge or denture. Implants are generally safe and durable, with success rates over 94 percent even after 15 years. Your dentist may determine that you’re a good candidate for dental implants if you
- Are healthy enough to undergo surgery
- Have healthy gums and are free from gum disease
- Have jawbone with sufficient density
- Already maintain excellent oral hygiene
- Don’t smoke or use any tobacco products
- Have chronic conditions, such as diabetes, that are under control
- Understand the potential risks and complications of dental implants
If you think you might benefit from a dental implant, schedule a consultation with your dentist. They’ll review your oral health and medical history to determine whether an implant crown is right for you.
Benefits of Implant Crowns
Beyond their high success rates, implant crowns offer aesthetic and health benefits. Let’s take a look at some of the advantages of implant crowns:
- They’re permanent, meaning you don’t have to repeatedly put them in and take them out.
- Porcelain crowns look and function like your natural teeth.
- Because they replace the tooth root, implants prevent your jawbone from deteriorating and your other teeth from shifting.
- Implants preserve your facial appearance, meaning no collapsed cheeks, misaligned bite, or sagging skin from missing teeth.
- Most people are candidates for implant crowns.
- Implant crowns preserve your oral health by eliminating the empty socket, which can attract bacteria and cause infection.
Possible Limitations of Implant Crowns
While implant crowns seem like a viable solution, consider them carefully because they may not work for everyone. Here are the primary disadvantages of implant crowns:
- Dental implants typically cost more than other tooth replacement options, and dental insurance may not cover it.
- The entire procedure takes multiple appointments, which can span at least six months, depending on how many implants you need.
- People with gum disease, immune disorders, or those who smoke shouldn’t have this procedure.
- Implants require significant healing time before you can enjoy the final product.
- As with any surgery, dental surgery carries risks of bleeding, infection, and other complications.
- There’s a small chance the implant may fail.
Consider Your Implant Crown Options With Us
Curious about getting permanent implants to improve your smile? Ask your Cincinnati family dentist if implant crowns are right for you. Notwithstanding the downsides, implant crowns offer a permanent, durable solution to missing teeth that preserves your smile and restores your confidence. Get started today by scheduling a consultation with us.