How Long Do Dental Implants Crowns Last?

Regardless of why you are missing teeth, dental implants can be an effective solution. Comprising a post, abutment and crown, implants are natural-looking and help preserve your mouth’s functions. If you take care of these artificial teeth, they should serve your needs for years to come.

How dental implants work

Unlike other tooth-replacement solutions such as dentures, the patient cannot remove implants. This method is a multistep process that can take several months to complete. The posts and abutments are made of titanium alloy, which is the same material used for hip and shoulder replacements. Implants allow the person to resume normal chewing, fill in gaps in the mouth and give the patient an attractive smile.

The process

People who decide to get dental implants need to understand that it requires at least two surgeries. After an initial consultation, the dentist may remove any decayed teeth. The staff will then take X-rays and make impressions of the patient’s mouth. These go to a lab so a technician can make the crowns. The rest of the steps involve invasive surgery and occur over several months, depending on how quickly the person’s gums and jaw heal.

• The dentist places the screw-like posts deep into the jaw
• After the bone fuses to the post, the dentist attaches the abutments to the posts
• Once the gums heal, the dentist will then attach the crowns to the abutments

Overview of the crowns

Traditional crowns, or caps, go over the top of broken, chipped or otherwise damaged teeth. When it comes to dental implants, the crowns act as artificial teeth. A lab technician uses dental X-rays and impressions to customize the crowns. This helps ensure that the crowns will have the same shape and color as the person’s natural teeth. With these crowns in place, the patient should be able to eat most foods. They will also help the patient’s speech and appearance.

Durability and longevity

No patient wants to undergo a tooth-replacement procedure and have to redo the process a short time later. Fortunately, dental implants are strong and secure. Like natural teeth, the crowns are susceptible to breaking and chipping. However, with proper maintenance and care, the crown part of the implants can last up to 20 years or longer.

Making them last

It is important for patients to be mindful of the crown’s condition and integrity. The dentist may advise the person to avoid eating certain foods such as gum, caramel, ice, nuts or some types of candy. The person should brush daily with a soft toothbrush and floss regularly as well. Consistent follow-up appointments and checkups with the dentist are important too.

Maintain your smile

Once you get dental implants, make sure you do your part to preserve the effectiveness and strength of the crowns. With these artificial teeth, you can restore your beautiful smile. Your dentist will monitor the crowns to make sure they are working well. However, you can have peace of mind knowing that this method is long-lasting and effective.

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