Does Your Dental Implant Restoration Need Replacing?

It is true that dental implants are designed to last a lifetime. However, if you have had your dental implants for 15 to 20 years or more, you may find that your dental implant restoration, the crown or bridge on top, is not looking (or even functioning) like it used to. In such cases, your dentist can replace your restoration without problem. Most of the time, it is a simple and quick procedure that can revamp your dental implants to new.

Here are some reasons why patients may need a restoration replacement:

Outdated, Poor Quality: What was the best quality crown even 10 years ago can be vastly different than what modern dentistry offers today. Your dental implant restoration may simply need an upgrade for a more attractive, durable and functional prosthetic tooth.

Discolored: Your dental crown may have lost its stain-resistant properties if you notice some discoloration. In such cases, a patient may need a replacement for aesthetics reasons alone.

Fractured: Porcelain or ceramic crowns are designed for high levels of wear and daily function. However, when placed on a dental implant, they are more susceptible to damage. A dental implant cannot cushion the crown like your natural teeth would do. A broken or fractured crown always warrants replacement.

Surrounding Teeth Changes: In some cases, it is not the crown at all that is problematic. However, your dental implant restoration may be standing out if your surrounding natural teeth have discolored, shifted or worn down. In other words, the crown that was fabricated to match your existing teeth at the time you got your dental implants may not be a great match today.

Unless your dentist finds that there is a problem underneath your restoration, with either the abutment or the implant itself, the replacement procedure is simple. In many cases, it can be as straightforward as taking off your old crown and placing a better one on top. Wayne G. Suway, DDS, MAGD is distinguished for his expertise in implants dentistry. Not only does he have proven success in placing new dental implants, but he can also accurately perform dental implant repairs and restoration replacements when necessary. Your dental implants were a major investment, and we do everything we can to protect that investment and keep you smiling comfortably and beautifully for years to come.