Dental Crowns for Single Tooth Replacement
Have you considered what procedure is best for replacing a lost tooth? For single tooth replacement, dental crowns supported by implants can offer a long-lasting solution with many oral health benefits.
Missing teeth can lead to jawbone atrophy and additional tooth loss, but dental implants can prevent bone loss and other side effects of tooth loss. For this reason, Drs. James M. Stein and Brett E. Stein often recommend replacing single missing teeth with dental crowns supported by dental implants. For high-quality care and the latest dental technology, visit our dental practice in Boston, MA, today.
Why Replace Missing Teeth?
According to the American College of Prosthodontists, missing a tooth is a serious oral health issue that affects an estimated 178 million Americans. While tooth loss is common, it should be treated as soon as possible to prevent problems. Failing to replace a missing tooth can lead to the following issues:
- Further tooth loss
- Shifting teeth
- Facial changes
- Painful chewing
- Disrupted speech patterns
- Jaw disorders
- Lower self-confidence
- Dietary restrictions
Why Choose Implant-Supported Crowns?
There are several methods for replacing missing teeth, but dental crowns supported by dental implants are the best choice for single missing teeth because they:
- Prevent jawbone recession
- Do not require alteration of adjacent teeth
Is an Implant-Supported Crown Right for You?
Not everyone is a good candidate for a single tooth replacement with dental implants. If a patient struggles with any of the following problems, implant-supported dental crowns may not be an option:
- Poor oral health or hygiene
- Poor jawbone density
- Smoking
- Periodontal disease
- Unmanaged diabetes
If you have one of these issues, preparatory procedures or lifestyle changes can restore your candidacy and make implants a viable option. Those with poor bone density may need to undergo a bone graft and possibly a sinus lift, while those suffering from periodontal disease may require a deep cleaning or gum surgery. Patients who smoke should quit, and patients with diabetes should manage their blood sugar levels prior to surgery.
What to Expect When You Receive an Implant-Supported Crown
Before beginning treatment, one of our doctors will examine your oral health and conduct a thorough consultation. If our doctors determine that an implant-supported dental crown is right for you and you don’t need any prerequisite procedures, the procedure can be scheduled.
During your implant surgery, one of our doctors will position an implant in your jaw where your tooth is missing. The implant will fuse with the jawbone during the next four to six months. You may be given a temporary crown to wear during this period of time. After your implant has fused with the jawbone, your permanent dental crown can be attached.
Each customized crown is created by our CAD/CAM restoration system in roughly an hour. This means that the day you come in for your crown, the permanent restoration will be designed and milled in our office, instead of in a dental lab. CAD/CAM crowns are made from a single block of ceramic, so they look and function like strong, healthy, natural teeth.
Learn More about Implant-Supported Crowns
Our doctors are dedicated to helping patients restore and maintain great oral health with advanced solutions such as implant-supported crowns. If you are missing a single tooth and are thinking about treatment, contact us today to learn about implant-supported crowns. Call our Boston, MA, office at (617) 227-6076 to schedule a consultation or use our online appointment request form.