Do you have a tooth that is missing or can’t be saved? This is a common dental problem that many people will face at some point in their lifetime. The good news is that with modern technology there are solutions for replacement teeth that provide a natural look and function.
A dental implant and crown combination is designed to replace a single tooth. Is this the right option for you? Learn more about dental implants and their many benefits to help you make an informed decision.
What is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is an artificial tooth root that is surgically placed in the jaw. It replaces the natural root of a missing or extracted tooth, providing a secure anchor for a dental prosthetic, such as a crown. Most dental implants are made of titanium, a biocompatible metal that is capable of fusing with the bone tissue in your jaw. Once the process of osseointegration is complete, the bond between the bone and implant can last a lifetime.
What is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is an artificial tooth that can be placed over an existing tooth or a dental implant. In the case of a dental implant, an abutment (post) extends beyond the gumline from the implant. The crown is attached to the abutment to provide a replacement for a single missing tooth. A crown can be made of porcelain, metal, or porcelain fused to metal. Porcelain resembles the texture of tooth enamel for a natural appearance.
Are You a Candidate for a Dental Implant and Crown?
For a dental implant to be successful, there must be an adequate amount of bone tissue in the socket. If the tooth has been missing for a while, the bone may have weakened and partially resorbed (dissolved). In cases where there is not enough bone material to support an implant, a bone grafting procedure can help. A bone fragment can be placed in the socket to provide more structure and encourage regeneration of natural bone tissue.
Making a Decision
Ask yourself the following questions to help determine if a dental implant and crown combination is the right option for you.
How many teeth do you need to replace?
A dental implant and crown combination works best if you need to replace one or a small number of teeth.
How long has the tooth been missing?
The longer a tooth has been missing, the greater the chance that the bone has occurred.
Is cost an important factor for you?
Dental implants have a higher upfront cost than other tooth replacement options. But the benefits outweigh the cost for most patients.
Do you have an allergy to any metals?
If you have an allergy to titanium or titanium alloys, there are alternatives such as ceramic dental implants.
Do you have dental insurance and what tooth replacement options does it cover?
Some dental insurance plans cover dental implants and others don’t. Contact your provider to find out what tooth replacement options are covered. If dental implants are not covered by your plan, financing options are available to make the cost more affordable.
Are you a smoker?
Smoking can prevent dental implants from adequately fusing with the bone, increasing the risk of implant failure.
Talk To a Qualified Periodontist
If you think a dental implant and crown combination may be right for you, discuss your options further with Hudson Valley Periodontics & Implantology. We can provide insight from our extensive experience with dental implant placement to help you make the best decision for your oral health.
Call 845-623-6666 or contact us today to learn more and schedule an appointment.