What Are Implant Crowns?

Implant CrownsAn implant crown should not be confused with abutments, bridges, and other forms of dental implants.

A crown may also work in conjunction with other artificial structures. In traditional cases, a crown will be the only necessary restoration to strengthen the structural integrity of the tooth.

What is an implant crown?

An implant crown is a prosthetic that caps the visible part of a tooth that still has its structural integrity. We can also affix a crown to a dental implant that we screw into the jawbone. A dentist will often urge a patient to strongly consider getting a crown implant when a filling cannot stop an entrenched cavity from expanding, threatening the already precarious state of the tooth.

Implant crowns can consist of a variety of different materials. We can also affix the crowns to the existing tooth or dental implant can with dental cement, a screw, or a combination of both.

Different Types of Implant Crowns

There are many different types of implant crowns. One type may be the preferable option over another by a dentist, depending on the location of the tooth and other factors. A full consultation is always necessary to determine what options are best for the patient.

1. Porcelain Fused to Metal

Porcelain Fused to Metal or PFM crown implants are a popular choice because of their strength. Another advantage of PFM crown implants is that we can use them with temporary dental cement and still form a strong, solid bond.

PMFs are often the best choice for molars and other high load-bearing teeth as they can work in conjunction with metal stops.

2. E.Max Crowns

Emax crowns consist mostly of ceramics, with the main component being lithium disilicate glass in addition to lithium dioxide, phosphoroxide, quarts, potassium oxide, and a few other elements. These crown implants are a good choice for restoring damaged and/or discolored front teeth. These crowns are very durable and are also quite aesthetically pleasing given their similarity to natural teeth.

3.  Layered Zirconia

Strength and aesthetics come together with layered zirconia crown implants. Suitable as a restoration option for any tooth in the mouth, this zirconia substructure has a flexural strength of 1200 Mpa which is greater than that of both PFM crowns, EMax crowns, and other ceramic composites used for implants. Layered zirconia is probably most comparable to gold, but given the ever-increasing price of gold, it is also a much more affordable option.

Aesthetically speaking, there are no black lines along the gingival margins (a common problem with many of the cheaper implant crown options), and there is no visible metal. We usually cement Layered Zirconia crown implants to the tooth, dental implant, or abutment with resin ionomers.

Other things a dentist will consider when trying to figure out if the patient is a good candidate for an implant crown include:

  • Screw/abutment stability
  • Angulation of the implant
  • Depth of the Implant
  • Anticipated Retrieval in the Future
  • Interocclusal Space

Call (619) 805-4248 to schedule an appointment with Mission Valley Dental Arts in our San Diego dental office.

Recent Posts

How Many Appointments Are Needed To Get A Dental Crown?

If you are considering getting a dental crown, you might want to know how many appointments the procedure will require. The good news is, depending on the process, you might not have to wait that long. Usually, it takes two visits. Keep reading to learn more about what you can expect.The process of getting a…

How A Dental Crown Is Used For A Damaged Tooth

A dental crown is a device used to restore the functions and look of a tooth that has been damaged. If you need fractured tooth repair, or a big filling, your dentist may also decide to place a dental crown. The new crown covers the part of the tooth visible above the gums.Dental crowns are…

Metal Crowns Vs. Porcelain Dental Crowns

For patients in need of dental crowns, there are plenty of options available. Two of the most common choices are porcelain crowns and metal crowns (often with a porcelain overlay fused to the metal). Depending on a patient's specific circumstances, one of these crown types may be the preferred option.Metal crowns have the advantage of…

How Many Teeth Can Dental Bridges Replace

When a person is missing one or more teeth but does not need a full set of dentures, dental bridges may be recommended to take the place of the lost teeth. The number of teeth that a dental bridge replaces may depend on several factors.Dental bridges consist of two or more crowns that attach to…


Recent Posts

Can You Get Dentures At Any Age?

Can You Get Dentures At Any Age?

Sometimes it is necessary for young people to get dentures to replace most or all of their teeth. While many people regard denture-wearing as something that occurs as people get older, tooth loss can happen at any age.There are no age restrictions on dentures. If you are missing your natural teeth, dentures can give you…

How Do Veneers Work?

How Do Veneers Work?

Veneers are an excellent option for individuals seeking a permanent treatment that makes their teeth more attractive. A smile is often one of the first features noticed about a person; unfortunately, many dental issues can dim that happy look. Teeth may become stained from eating and drinking various types of food and drink over time.…