A dental implant crown is an artificial tooth that connects to the embedded post in the patient's jaw by means of an abutment. The crown is the visible part of the three-piece implant used to replace a missing tooth through a surgical procedure. The dental crowns used with implants are usually made of porcelain but can also be constructed of other materials. Although these crowns are tough, strong and resilient, it is still possible for them to get chipped or broken through an accident, sports injury, constant teeth grinding or biting down on a hard object.
Whenever individuals experience a problem with an implant crown, whether it is a crack, chip or unusual looseness, they should seek professional help. Since the crown provides protection for the titanium implant, it is important to address the issue immediately.
If the dentist who performed the implant procedure is available, contact the office, explain the situation and make an appointment as soon as possible. If this dentist or an associate is not accessible, get in touch with a dental professional who works with implants and request an emergency appointment.
Immediately after a dental implant crown breaks, avoid eating anything on the side of the mouth where the broken crown resides. Chewing could cause further damage, as well as pain from the broken pieces. It may be necessary to adjust to soft food or a liquid diet until the crown is repaired. Try to restrict the food intake to soups, smoothies or other soft items, such as mashed potatoes or cooked vegetables, to ensure that further damage does not occur.
One of the most important things to do when a dental implant crown breaks is to rinse the mouth with saltwater. Mouthwash can be harsh on the tissues of the mouth and gums, especially if there is something broken. Saltwater is safe and gentle enough to keep the mouth clean but also remove any debris from the damaged implant crown. Rinse gently and spit out the saltwater immediately after to ensure that nothing is swallowed or left behind.
In some instances, the patient may be able to see or feel the pieces from the damaged crown. It may be helpful to collect these pieces carefully and preserve them. In the event the dentist can salvage the current implant crown, these pieces could become useful. Whether the crown needs replacement or not, any retrieved pieces can be beneficial to the dentist when determining the course of action.
A dental professional should immediately address any issues with cracked, chipped or broken dental implant crowns. If you are experiencing problems with a damaged crown or would like to consult a dentist about the possibility of an implant, call our office as soon as possible for assistance. Our team of dentists will be happy to help.
Request an appointment here: https://www.drkarolineasbell.com or call Karoline Asbell, DDS at (561) 225-2063 for an appointment in our Boca Raton office.
Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Implants in Boca Raton, FL.
A dental implant is widely considered the tooth replacement solution that most closely resembles a natural tooth in durability, functionality, and appearance. However, like natural teeth, dental implants require diligent and consistent care to ensure longevity. Incorporating proper dental implant care into your oral hygiene routine can prevent complications and keep your smile healthy for…
Before the invention of dental implants, the only options available to replace a lost tooth were dentures or bridges. Today, dental implants offer a solution that looks and feels like a natural tooth. They are attractive and comfortable, and they provide many advantages.If you are considering replacing a lost tooth with an implant, there are…
Dental implants are highly recommended when it comes to replacing missing teeth. These oral prosthetics are surgically inserted into your jawbone, replacing the root that came out when you lost a tooth.Replacing lost teeth with dental implants requires minor oral surgery, and the implant is given up to six months to fuse with surrounding bone…
Dental implants are the most modern and effective way to replace lost teeth. Unfortunately, the American Academy of Implant Dentistry finds that "More than 35 million Americans are missing all their teeth in one or both jaws." This condition occurs largely due to age, diseases, or accidents. Living without teeth or with fewer teeth than…