Implant-Supported Crowns

What is an Implant Crown?

Implant crowns are prosthetic teeth that are attached to an implant that was previously placed into your mouth. The implant acts as artificial roots to support your replacement tooth, and it prevents loss of bone in your jaw.

You may need an implant crown if you have one or multiple teeth that are severely worn down, cracked, or decayed. If the tooth cannot be saved, then it is extracted, a dental implant is surgically installed, and later, a crown is screwed or cemented onto the implant. This replaces a single or in some cases, multiple teeth, completely restoring function, so you can talk, eat, and smile normally. The crowns are custom-designed to match your other teeth. No one except your dentist will know it is a tooth replacement!

What is the Difference Between an Implant and a Crown?

The implant is a biocompatible material that is surgically placed into the jawbone. Over a period of 3-4 months, the implant bonds with the bone, making it a secure and strong tooth replacement option. The crown is fabricated separately. After the implant has had time to heal and bond, the dentist will screw the crown onto the implant. There are certain instances when the insertion of the crown is more complex, and it needs to be cemented to an intermediate piece, called an abutment. Dental crowns are also sometimes used to preserve natural teeth by placing them over a cracked or worn down tooth with a healthy root to support it. 

Why Would I Want a Single-Tooth Implant?

Your dentist will help you decide if your unique situation could benefit from an implant-supported crown. If you have a damaged tooth, the dentist will first determine whether it can be saved through other restoration treatments. If the prognosis is poor, then the tooth will usually need to be extracted. An implant with a crown is an ideal solution for permanent teeth replacement. Some medical conditions and medications increase the risk factors for implant complications, so your dentist will look carefully at your medical history when determining if you are a good candidate for the procedure.

The benefits of a dental implant include:

• Restore chewing function
• Restored speech
• Your smile will improve with an implant-supported crown in place
• No diet restrictions due to missing teeth

If you have not been eating well due to your missing tooth, an implant-supported crown will allow you to eat with ease, which improves the overall quality of your life.

How Long Does it Take to Get an Implant Crown from Start to Finish?

It typically takes about 6 months to complete the entire tooth restoration process. After the implant surgery is performed, we wait 3-4 months before evaluating the implant for stability. If it is ready, then we scan it digitally to make an impression. After that, it takes 2-4 weeks until we can insert the dental crown. 

Your crown is created in-office using our CEREC system. Using a 3d virtual model of your mouth, the CEREC designs a crown. The design information is then sent to a milling station in the office which cuts the crown out of the chosen material. 

How Long Do Implant Crowns Last?

Thankfully, dental implants usually last for life, especially if you maintain a healthy mouth. Crowns can wear out over time, although they should last 7-10 years before fractures occur. Many patients keep their tooth restorations for 20 or more years. The most common negative risk factors include periodontal disease, smoking, and grinding habits. If your crown does need to be replaced, it is a simple process of unscrewing it and making a new one.

Cost of Dental Implant Crowns

The cost of getting an implant-supported crown is generally around $2,000 to $4,000 depending on your dental insurance coverage. Care Credit options are also available.