How to Care for Dental Implant Crowns

Dental implants are the gold standard when it comes to replacing missing teeth. These helpful prosthetic devices effectively replace the entire tooth, from roots to crown. If you have just had a dental implant put in or if you are expecting a dental implant surgery soon, you may be wondering how you can best care for your implant so it lasts as long as possible.

With proper care, dental implants can last decades, even a lifetime. Dental implants are made up of three separate parts. If one of the components fails, the rest of the implant is left intact while that one piece is replaced. The implant post (a titanium, screw-like rod that is inserted into the jawbone) mimics the tooth roots. Above the post lies the abutment, a peg-shaped appliance that serves as the connector between the post and crown. Finally, the implant crown is placed onto the abutment.

Implant crowns are the most likely component to fail out of the three. The crown (the visible portion of the implant that sits above the gum line) is constantly subjected to the force of the bite. Crowns are often made of a medical-grade porcelain material that is of similar hardness to surrounding teeth. Ceramic (a form of porcelain) is very strong, but not stronger than a natural tooth. This is why it is important to learn how to properly care for a dental implant crown.

Care for your dental implant crown

Implant crowns, depending on the materials used, can last for years when properly cared for. Some crowns are known to last for decades when maintained.

Keep it clean

Although the crown itself cannot be affected by decay, the surrounding teeth and gums can still be attacked by bacteria that accumulate on the crown. Brush the crown as if you would a natural tooth. Be careful to use only soft-bristled toothbrushes, and always reach for a fluoride-rich toothpaste that will protect your natural teeth and add a layer of shine to your smile. Floss between an implant crown and other teeth to protect the gums from infection.

Avoid using it as a tool

As with all teeth, never use an implant crown as a tool. Opening packages with the teeth is a bad habit that can do real damage to an implant crown. Using a crown as a tool can loosen the crown and ultimately cause it to break or fall off.

Get frequent checkups

Dentists recommend getting a dental cleaning and checkup (complete with X-rays) at least once every six months, or twice throughout the year. This way, any issues that arise with the crown (any fractures, cracks, looseness or gum disease) can be spotted right away and treated before they cause crown failure.

Treat your implant crown like a tooth

When it comes to caring for your implant crown, a good rule of thumb is to treat it as you would a natural tooth. Any tooth can be damaged by excessive force and bacteria, so keeping your teeth clean and out of harm's way will ensure that they last as long as possible.

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