Implant Restoration
Dental implants (metal screws and abutments) are designed to last a patient a lifetime. The porcelain crown portion, however, does not always last as long. With proper care, for example, dental crowns typically last patients for about 10 to 15 years. For this reason, implant restoration is sometimes needed to repair a dental crown or a dental bridge that a dental implant is supporting.
What Is an Implant Restoration?
The term “implant restoration” refers to the reconstruction or replacement of a screw-retained dental crown. In other words, implant restoration is the process of repairing the tooth-replacement portion (i.e., the dental crown) of a dental implant. This can be the crown portion of an individual dental implant or an implant supporting a dental bridge abutment.
Signs You Might Need an Implant Restoration
Signs you might need an implant restoration include the following:
- Your dental crown has become chipped, fractured, or broken.
- The dental crown feels loose or is moving around on top of the dental implant.
- The dental crown has fallen off of the dental implant.
- The dental crown does not fit properly against opposing teeth when you bite down.
- Your dental crown has become stained or otherwise discolored.
If you experience any of these signs, we recommend scheduling a restoration appointment as soon as possible to avoid further damage from occurring to your dental crown, dental bridge, or neighboring teeth.
Does Implant Restoration Hurt?
Implant restorations only address the dental crown or dental bridge portion of a dental implant. These dental prostheses are located entirely above the gum line, away from any sensitive tissue and nerve roots in the mouth. As a result, the process is quick and painless. Patients should not experience any discomfort during an implant restoration appointment.
What To Expect During an Implant Restoration
During an implant restoration, our dentist first removes your dental crown from your implant (if it has not completely fallen off). We can then examine the crown to determine the level of damage. Depending on its current state, we might repair the crown or recommend manufacturing a completely new one. If a new crown needs to be ordered, the implant restoration can then require a second appointment for placing a new dental crown.
Once your existing or new crown is ready to be placed, we clean the dental implant abutment, apply dental cement, and permanently fix your dental crown to the implant. Once the cement has been set, the patient and their dental implant should be good as new and ready to return to normal activities.
Since this process is non-invasive and painless, no anesthetics are necessary during the appointment.
How To Protect Your Implant Restoration
You can extend the life of the crown portion of your dental implant or your implant restoration by avoiding chewing on hard objects and foods. We also recommend avoiding (or rinsing your mouth after consuming) highly pigmented foods and drinks such as red wine, coffee, tea, dark-colored sodas, chocolate, and berries.
Additionally, you can protect your implant restoration and natural teeth by wearing an athletic mouthguard during sports activities. We also recommend wearing a nightguard to protect your teeth and dental work if you suffer from sleep bruxism.
Dental Implant Restoration With Our Dentists in Glen Ellyn
If you believe your dental crown might be damaged or loose, we encourage you to have it examined and restored by one of our experienced dentists at Glen Ellyn Dentistry. To learn more about implant restoration or to request an appointment, we welcome you to contact our office at 630-942-0727 today.
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