Implant Crowns in Abilene, Texas

Many patients receive a dental implant to restore a missing tooth. However, they still need an implant crown to complete the restoration. At Morris Dental Associates, Dr. Morris provides implant crowns in Abilene, Texas. An implant crown is similar to a traditional crown. However, it sits on top of a dental implant. Here is everything you need to know about implant crowns in Abilene, Texas. 

What is a Dental Implant?

At Morris Dental Associates, Dr. Morris recommends top dental implant specialists for her patients to visit. Patients who can benefit from a dental implant are missing a tooth and the tooth’s root. Patients may not have a tooth because of dental decay or an accident that caused their tooth to be knocked out. The implant specialist will perform two main parts of the dental implant. The first is the post, which replaces the tooth’s root in the gums. The second is the piece that attaches the post to the implant crown, the abutment. 

What is an Implant Crown?

After your implant has healed, Dr. Morris recommends that you visit her practice for the implant crown. An implant crown is similar to a traditional crown. To place the implant crown, Dr. Morris will first take an impression of your teeth. After the image is made, she will send it to a lab to create the implant crown. An implant crown is typically made of porcelain, durable and stain-resistant material. The implant crown attaches on top of the dental implant to the abutment. An implant crown is the final piece to complete your dental implant. 

How do I Care for my Implant Crown?

Dr. Morris recommends that patients care for their implant crown similarly to how they care for their other teeth. She recommends a good oral health routine. You should brush, floss, and use mouthwash twice daily during an oral health routine. A good oral health routine will prevent bacteria from collecting on your teeth, which can cause damage. Dr. Morris recommends that patients visit Morris Dental Associates every six months for a dental cleaning and exam. During the exam, Dr. Morris will inspect the implant crown for damage. Regular check-ups allow her to monitor the health of your teeth and your implant crown. 

When Would I Need an Implant Crown?

If you have experienced dental decay, crack, or break where your dentist could not save the tooth, you may need an implant crown. Dental implants sit under the implant crown and are often only recommended when the tooth’s root is extracted. If the tooth’s root is removed and an implant is not placed, your surrounding teeth may shift, and the jawbone may become weak. The tooth’s natural root or a dental implant’s post stimulates the bone in the jaw, making it strong. Without this stimulation, the bone can lose density, making it harder to place a dental implant and an implant crown in the future. 

How Long Do Implant Crowns Last?

Although your dental implant can last a lifetime, your implant crown typically lasts from 10 to 30 years, depending on the usage of the implant crown and the care. If you care for your crown, such as maintaining a good oral health routine, your crown can last longer. If you are concerned about the lifespan of your implant crown, contact our office. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have. 

Choosing to get a dental implant can be a big decision. At Morris Dental Associates, we are here to help you enhance your smile during the dental implant journey with implant crowns. If you are interested in an implant crown or would like to schedule an appointment, call our office today.