“Can a zirconia crown be put on an implant?”
I got an implant 2 months ago. Can a zirconia crown be put on an implant?
1 Answer
Yes, a zirconia crown can be placed on a dental implant, and it is an excellent choice for durability, aesthetics, and biocompatibility. Zirconia crowns are often recommended for implants, especially in areas where strength and a natural appearance are important, such as for a front tooth or molar. At Elite Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Oklahoma, Dr. Jeremy Egan, DMD, MD, frequently uses zirconia crowns to provide patients with a long-lasting and natural-looking restoration for their implants.
Benefits of Choosing a Zirconia Crown for Your Implant
1. Strength and Durability
Zirconia is an exceptionally strong material that can withstand the forces of chewing and grinding, making it ideal for both front and back teeth. This durability helps extend the life of the crown, reducing the need for future replacements.
2. Natural Appearance
Zirconia has a natural, tooth-like color and translucency, allowing it to blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth. This aesthetic benefit is particularly valuable for visible teeth, as zirconia crowns are highly lifelike and maintain their color over time.
3. Biocompatibility
Zirconia is a biocompatible material, meaning it is unlikely to cause an allergic reaction or irritation in the surrounding gum tissue. This makes it an excellent choice for patients with sensitivities to metals or other materials.
4. Minimal Wear on Opposing Teeth
Unlike some other materials, zirconia is designed to be gentle on the opposing teeth. This feature is especially important if the crown is placed on a molar or other area involved in significant chewing.
Timing for Placing the Zirconia Crown
Since you received the implant two months ago, it’s likely that you’re nearing the point where the implant is sufficiently integrated with your jawbone. Implants typically take about 3-6 months to fully integrate, but the exact timing for placing the crown depends on the healing progress and stability of the implant. Dr. Egan will assess the osseointegration of your implant to ensure it is ready for the final restoration.
The Process of Placing a Zirconia Crown on an Implant
1. Abutment Placement
Once the implant is stable, an abutment (a small connector piece) is attached to the implant. This abutment supports and connects the zirconia crown to the implant post.
2. Custom-Made Zirconia Crown
The zirconia crown is custom-made to match the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth, providing a precise fit and natural appearance. Dr. Egan will work with a dental lab to ensure your crown is designed specifically for your smile.
3. Crown Placement
After verifying the fit and appearance of the zirconia crown, Dr. Egan will secure it to the abutment. This process is typically straightforward, and once placed, the crown should feel comfortable and look natural.
Caring for a Zirconia Crown on an Implant
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to ensure the longevity of your zirconia crown and implant. Brush and floss regularly, and attend routine check-ups with Dr. Egan to monitor the health of the implant and surrounding gums.
A zirconia crown is an excellent choice for completing your dental implant, providing a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution that can last for many years. Dr. Jeremy Egan and the team at Elite Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Oklahoma are committed to helping you achieve a successful and natural-looking implant restoration.
Benefits of Choosing a Zirconia Crown for Your Implant
1. Strength and Durability
Zirconia is an exceptionally strong material that can withstand the forces of chewing and grinding, making it ideal for both front and back teeth. This durability helps extend the life of the crown, reducing the need for future replacements.
2. Natural Appearance
Zirconia has a natural, tooth-like color and translucency, allowing it to blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth. This aesthetic benefit is particularly valuable for visible teeth, as zirconia crowns are highly lifelike and maintain their color over time.
3. Biocompatibility
Zirconia is a biocompatible material, meaning it is unlikely to cause an allergic reaction or irritation in the surrounding gum tissue. This makes it an excellent choice for patients with sensitivities to metals or other materials.
4. Minimal Wear on Opposing Teeth
Unlike some other materials, zirconia is designed to be gentle on the opposing teeth. This feature is especially important if the crown is placed on a molar or other area involved in significant chewing.
Timing for Placing the Zirconia Crown
Since you received the implant two months ago, it’s likely that you’re nearing the point where the implant is sufficiently integrated with your jawbone. Implants typically take about 3-6 months to fully integrate, but the exact timing for placing the crown depends on the healing progress and stability of the implant. Dr. Egan will assess the osseointegration of your implant to ensure it is ready for the final restoration.
The Process of Placing a Zirconia Crown on an Implant
1. Abutment Placement
Once the implant is stable, an abutment (a small connector piece) is attached to the implant. This abutment supports and connects the zirconia crown to the implant post.
2. Custom-Made Zirconia Crown
The zirconia crown is custom-made to match the size, shape, and color of your natural teeth, providing a precise fit and natural appearance. Dr. Egan will work with a dental lab to ensure your crown is designed specifically for your smile.
3. Crown Placement
After verifying the fit and appearance of the zirconia crown, Dr. Egan will secure it to the abutment. This process is typically straightforward, and once placed, the crown should feel comfortable and look natural.
Caring for a Zirconia Crown on an Implant
Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential to ensure the longevity of your zirconia crown and implant. Brush and floss regularly, and attend routine check-ups with Dr. Egan to monitor the health of the implant and surrounding gums.
A zirconia crown is an excellent choice for completing your dental implant, providing a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution that can last for many years. Dr. Jeremy Egan and the team at Elite Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery of Oklahoma are committed to helping you achieve a successful and natural-looking implant restoration.
