Missing teeth can impact more than just a beautiful smile- it can also cause changes to the smile that patients will need ample time and money to fix. Instead, patients who have lost a tooth or have had a tooth extracted will want to talk to their dentist about possible replacement options. For many, a single tooth is best replaced with a dental implant and a restorative dental crown. This solution is appropriate for many of our patients with tooth loss. At Gentle Dentistry in Tampa, Florida, we can help you with this.
What Are The Advantages Of Dental Implant Crowns?
Missing teeth used to be replaced with removable dentures or dental bridges, but now, with dental implants, patients have a more reliable option. Dentures can slip from the gums, and dental bridges may require removing healthy tooth enamel on surrounding teeth to fill the gap. Many patients choose implant crowns because they are:
- Convenient
- Comfortable
- Durable and longer lasting than alternatives
- Best for overall oral hygiene
- Natural-looking
- An improvement in speech
- An intelligent investment in the smile
How Are Implant Crowns Placed?
Initially, the dentist will need to place a dental implant, which serves as a replacement for the tooth root. This procedure is sometimes completed in a specialist’s office. This post is made of titanium, an element that fuses biologically to your natural bone, so it is completely safe. Once placed in the jawbone during oral surgery, three to four months of healing are usually needed to allow the bone to grow around the implant and anchor it. Once complete, a dental crown is fabricated to place over the abutment of the dental implant. This crown is manufactured to match the patient’s existing teeth size, shape, and color to ensure integration and natural appearance. Patients who maintain the health of their smiles will enjoy their dental implants for life!
How Do I Learn More About Efficient Tooth Replacement With Dental Implants And Crowns?
If you are located in Tampa, Florida, and want to learn more about dental implants, which can improve oral health while replacing a missing tooth, call the office of Gentle Dentistry. The practice is at 3500 East Fletcher Avenue, Suite #221, and can be reached at (813) 734-7102 to request an appointment with Dr. Loc Tong.
Case Samples
Esthetic Crowns
- The patient presented to the practice stating he wanted to improve his smile as a surprise for his daughter’s wedding. He was a former hockey player and had suffered from trauma for many years, which left him feeling very self-conscious about his smile. He purposely tried not to smile too much.
- During his visit, it was observed that the patient had missing teeth, attrition due to clenching and grinding, and generalized spacing.
- A quick and brand new smile just in time for his daughter’s wedding.
Implant Crowns FAQs
How do implant crowns differ from regular crowns?
While implant crowns resemble standard crowns, there are a few key differences. An implant crown is attached to a dental implant, not a natural tooth. The implant crown becomes the functional and visible component of the implant system.
A regular crown sits on top of a natural tooth that has been reshaped and prepared. They replace the compromised structure of the tooth, providing unrivaled strength and function.
Does my implant crown look natural?
Yes! Implant crowns are custom-made to match your surrounding teeth. Their color, shape, and size are carefully chosen to blend seamlessly with your smile. Most people can’t tell the difference between an implant crown and adjacent teeth.
How long do implant crowns last?
One of the most common questions about implant crowns is how long they last. While the titanium post may last a lifetime, the crown may need to be replaced at some point in life. Most dental crowns can last 10-15 years, but their longevity depends on:
- Oral hygiene practices
- Location in the mouth—crowns in the posterior region wear out faster because of heavy grinding and chewing
- Teeth grinding and jaw clenching
- Material quality
- Diet—hard and chewy foods wear out crowns faster
Do implant crowns require special maintenance?
Not really! Crowns are primarily cared for just like your natural teeth. Brush your teeth twice a day, in the morning and at night, with a soft-bristle toothbrush. Pay attention to the area where the crown meets the gum line. Food debris and plaque tend to build up there.
Floss carefully around the crown area using the right techniques. You can use an interdental brush or water flosser for more efficiency. Avoid using your teeth as tools to open packages or cut your fingernails. These habits could damage or dislodge your restoration. Lastly, wear a mouthguard if you grind your teeth and visit your dentist routinely for check-ups and cleanings.
How do I know my implant crown needs replacement?
Implant crowns are long-lasting, but they won’t last forever. Here are signs that indicate you need to consult your Tampa dentist about replacement.
- Visible chips, cracks, or wear
- Discomfort when chewing
- Changes in your bite
- Stubborn stains that don’t respond to cleaning
- Loosening or movement in the crown
- Receding gums exposing the crown at the margins
Regular visits with your dentist in Tampa, FL, help monitor your crown and detect problems that may go unnoticed at home. When the implant needs replacement, the cost will be significantly lower than the original implant cost. You are only replacing the crown, not the abutment or implant fixture.
Does insurance cover implant crowns?
Coverage varies by plan. Some insurance plans help cover the crown portion, even if the implant itself is not fully covered. Our team will help verify the benefits of your coverage so you can proceed with confidence.
Don’t have insurance? Explore how dental financing can help you make your dental care affordable. It allows you to break down treatment costs into budget-friendly installments.
What is the cost of implant crowns in Tampa, Florida?
Understanding the cost of your restoration helps you plan accordingly. The cost of your crown depends on several factors, such as:
- Material type
- The complexity of your case
- Insurance coverage
We’ll provide a cost breakdown after a consultation. We are also happy to answer any questions you may have about the cost of your implant crown.
Where can I get implant crowns in the Tampa area?
Gentle Dentistry offers dental implant crowns that look and function like natural teeth. If you are ready to get started, dial (813) 734-7102 and schedule your consultation with our office. We proudly serve patients from Tampa, Wesley Chapel, Lutz, New Tampa, and the surrounding locations.
