Replacing a Tooth
When the root and the crown are both damaged, the best way of permanently replacing a tooth is to fit a dental implant, onto which a ceramic crown is then placed. This technique helps to restore the aesthetic appearance and functionality of the natural teeth.
Thanks to “one-piece” type implants all of the components are fitted at once, which considerably reduces both the treatment time and the subsequent discomfort, and means that the patient can start using his or her new teeth straight away.
This solution is designed to last for life and does not need to be looked after in any special way.
The stages involved in the treatment:
This procedure normally includes four visits to the dentist. You should expect to be able to work the day after having the implant installed.
1. Before the operation
Your dentist performs a first examination and takes one or more X-rays of the area in which the operation will be carried out.
2. Fitting the implant
The implant is fitted along with a temporary tooth at the same time, so that you can eat and enjoy the functional qualities of your new teeth. It takes several months for the implant to be integrated into the jawbone, before we can move on to the next stage.
3. Fixing the new, permanent crown into place
The final stage is the fitting of the permanent ceramic tooth. The new tooth is designed to last the whole of the patient’s life. No additional treatment or elements are required.
4. End result
Your new tooth fits perfectly and works just as well as a natural tooth. Follow conventional hygiene rules to keep your tooth and gums healthy.
Alternatives to an all-ceramic crown on implant:
Bridge fastened onto the tooth
This is a conventional bridge: the adjacent teeth are cut to shape so that they support the bridge. Although this solution is fixed, aesthetically pleasing, functional and easy to fit it does still have two major drawbacks: the bone around the missing tooth is constantly shrinking and the healthy teeth are altered in order to install the bridge.
Removable partial denture
This is not a fixed solution. The dentures are unstable and have a tendency to move, which adversely affects both their functional nature and the feeling of comfort. Removable partial dentures are made of plastic – a material which does not give the same aesthetically pleasing results as a ceramic crown, for instance. Although there are fewer advantages there are still some: the adjacent teeth are spared. Dentures are quick and easy to fit, without overlooking the fact that they are fairly cheap.
Resin-bonded bridge
This solution clearly offers a number of advantages. It is easy to fit. It meets all of the functional requirements and when it is made of ceramic it gives highly satisfactory aesthetic results. In addition to this the healthy natural teeth are spared. Even so, this is not a permanent solution; the resin bridge may deteriorate and have to be replaced (after a few years).