Getting a crown implant is a big step toward a smile that looks and works like it should. Knowing what the procedure involves helps you prepare and feel more confident about the result.
At Dental Associates of Aurora, we help patients in Aurora and Westminster, CO, replace missing teeth with crown implants. Here’s what to expect, from your first visit to your final tooth.
What Is a Crown Implant?
A crown implant combines two parts: the implant, an artificial tooth root placed in your jaw, and the crown that attaches to it. A traditional crown covers a tooth you still have. A crown implant replaces the whole tooth, root and all, which makes it a great solution for missing teeth.
Benefits of Crown Implants
Crown implants offer real benefits, especially when it comes to how long they last. Dentures often need adjustments and replacements, but crown implants are designed to last for many years with proper care. They also help keep your jawbone strong, since bone can shrink after a tooth is lost. Learn more about the relationship between dental implants and bone health.
The Crown Implant Procedure
The crown implant procedure happens in several steps. First, your dentist does a full exam to make sure you’re a good candidate. Then the implant is placed. Once it has bonded with your jawbone, a custom crown is made and attached, looking and working like a natural tooth.
Step-by-Step Process
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Consultation: A full exam with X-rays and 3D imaging to check your bone and plan treatment.
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Implant Placement: Our in-house oral surgeon places the implant using guided techniques. Learn about the process of dental implants for more details.
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Healing Period: Time for osseointegration, when the implant bonds with the bone.
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Customized Crown: Your crown is designed and fitted to match your smile.
Timing and Scheduling Considerations
The whole crown implant process can take several months, mostly because the implant needs time to fuse with the bone. In many cases, you’ll wear a temporary tooth in the meantime. Read more about temporary prosthesis wear times during this stage.
What to Expect During the Recovery Process
Recovery means managing some discomfort and keeping the area clean. Mild swelling and soreness in the first few days are normal. Good oral hygiene helps prevent infection and supports a successful result.
Typical Recovery Timeline
Most people feel back to normal within a week, though full healing below the gums takes several months.
Tips for Care and Maintaining Implants
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Keep up with routine dental checkups.
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Brush and floss carefully, including around the implant.
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Avoid hard foods like nuts and ice while the implant heals.
Cost and Insurance Considerations
The cost of a crown implant depends on how complex your case is and the materials used. Dental insurance may cover part of the treatment, especially when it’s needed for your oral health and not just cosmetic. Dental Associates of Aurora accepts most major dental insurance plans and offers financing to make treatment easier to manage.
General Cost Factors
The crown material, where the tooth is, and whether you need extra procedures like bone grafting all affect the cost. Find out why dental implants are worth the cost.
Insurance and Payment Options
Check with your insurance company and ask our team about payment plans. We’ll file claims for you and help you understand your options.
Comparing Crown Implants With Other Dental Solutions
Crowns vs. Bridges
Both can replace a missing tooth, but an implant-supported crown is more stable and doesn’t require shaving down the healthy teeth on either side, the way a traditional bridge does.
Crowns vs. Full-Mouth Implants
The right choice depends on how many teeth are missing and the health of your jawbone. If several or all of your teeth need replacing, look into full-mouth dental implants as another option.
Real Results From Crown Implants
For many people, a crown implant means chewing comfortably on both sides again and smiling without thinking about a gap. You can see real patient results in the smile gallery on the Dental Associates of Aurora website.
FAQs About Crown Implants
How long do crown implants last?
With proper care, the implant can last for decades. The crown may need replacing after many years of wear.
Is the procedure painful?
Most patients have only mild discomfort, which is easy to manage with pain medication. Sedation is available if you’re nervous.
Can anyone get crown implants?
Good candidates have healthy gums and enough bone. If bone is thin, grafting may help.
How do I care for my crown implants?
Brush and floss every day and keep up with regular checkups.
Your Next Step Toward a Full Smile
If you have tooth pain, a gap in your smile, or a dental solution you’re unhappy with, it’s time to talk with Dental Associates of Aurora. Dr. Seung H. Lee and our team are here to guide you through the process and help you decide whether a crown implant is right for you.
