Patients who are missing one tooth can benefit from a single dental implant. As the number one solution for tooth loss, Dr. Kevin Welinsky recommends this option to all his patients. He can provide you with an implant-supported crown in Towson, MD if you are missing a back or front tooth.
What is an Implant-Supported Crown?
An implant supported crown is a revolutionary method to replace a tooth anywhere in your mouth. It will mimic the appearance, function, and feel of a natural tooth. Your new false tooth will be made up of several parts:
- The Dental Implant: The first part of the restoration is the titanium implant post that a dentist will surgically place in the jawbone. The implant will fuse to the surrounding bone through a process called osseointegration. The dental implant provides a stable and long-lasting base for the dental crown.
- An Abutment: A small piece called an abutment will be attached to the implant fixture. It will protrude from the gumline and act as a connector piece between the dental implant and the dental crown. Abutments can be customized to fit the crown precisely however there are prefabricated ones available.
- A Custom Dental Crown: The dental crown is the replacement tooth and the visible portion of the dental restoration. They are custom made to mimic the exact shape, color, and feel the natural tooth. We can fabricate your dental crown from a durable material such as porcelain, ceramic, or zirconia. It will blend in naturally with your surrounding teeth and last for a long time due to its strength.
Screw-Retained Crown vs Cemented Implant-Supported Crown
Your dentist can secure the dental crown to the implant is one of two ways. He can use a screw or dental cement. There are pros and cons of each method.
Screw-Retained Crown
This type of custom crown requires a customize abutment that will have a small access hole. The dental crown will also be fabricated with a screw channel that will align with the abutment’s access hole. Your dentist will align the holes up and use a tiny screw to secure the dental crown.
This type of dental restoration is typically favored among patients. It can be easily removed for maintenance or repairs by simply removing the screw. It offers a precise and very secure fit. However, it can be difficult to place since your dentist will need more space for the screw access hole.
Cemented Implant-Supported Crown
This type of dental crown can be secured with a pre-fabricated abutment. Your dentist will simply secure the dental crown using dental cement then remove any excess cement. Placing this type of implant supported crown is very simple.
A cemented implant supported crown offers good aesthetics since there are no visible screw holes. However, they can be a challenge to remove if maintenance or replacement is required as the crown is securely bonded to the abutment with cement.
- Implant Dentistry Overview
- Dental Implants FAQs
- Benefits of Dental Implants
- Dental Implants vs Dentures
- Full Mouth Dental Implants
- Implant-Supported Bridge
Schedule an Appointment for an Implant-Supported Crown in Towson, MD
A dental crown supported by a single dental implant is your best option to replace a tooth. If you have a missing tooth and would like to learn more about an implant supported crown in Towson MD, schedule an appointment today by calling 410-449-7656 or you can also request an appointment online.