Unlike regular dentures, implant crowns allow your mouth to function normally again without difficulty. You can easily bite, smile and talk.
A missing tooth changes more than just a smile. It affects confidence, biting strength, and even the way the jaw naturally supports itself over time. Dental implant crowns in Delray Beach offer a solution that looks and feels like a natural tooth while protecting the bone structure beneath the gums. Unlike traditional bridges that rely on neighboring teeth, implant crowns stand on their own, providing a stable and long-lasting restoration. For anyone researching prosthodontic treatments in South Florida, understanding how implant crowns work makes the decision process much easier.
Ocean Breeze Prosthodontics brings a unique level of care to patients throughout Delray Beach and the surrounding communities. Dr. Nicholas Goetz completed his undergraduate degree, dental school education, master’s degree, and dental specialty residency at the University of Florida, and he furthered his training with a Maxillofacial Prosthodontics Fellowship at UCLA. As one of only 150 maxillofacial prosthodontists in the United States, Dr. Goetz combines advanced clinical knowledge with a welcoming, patient-focused approach that puts visitors at ease from the first consultation.
Dental implant crowns consist of three main parts: the implant post, the abutment, and the crown itself. The titanium post gets surgically placed into the jawbone, where it fuses with the surrounding tissue through a process called osseointegration. This creates a foundation that mimics the natural tooth root. The abutment connects the post to the visible crown, which gets custom-crafted to match the shape, size, and shade of existing teeth.
Traditional crowns sit on top of natural teeth that have been reshaped to hold them in place. Crowns and bridges work well in many situations, but they require healthy adjacent teeth for support. Implant crowns eliminate this requirement entirely. They protect neighboring teeth from additional wear while providing chewing strength that rivals natural dentition.
Patients who choose trusted dental implant crowns in Delray Beach gain more than just a replacement tooth. According to the American Academy of Implant Dentistry, bone loss can reach up to 25% within the first three months after losing a tooth. Implant posts stimulate the jawbone the same way natural roots do, helping to prevent this deterioration and maintain facial structure.
The durability of implant crowns also stands out. With proper care and regular dental visits, these restorations often last for decades. The crown portion may need replacement after 10 to 15 years due to normal wear, but the implant post itself can remain functional for a lifetime.
Specialized prosthodontic treatments to restore function and beauty with financing options for complex dental care.
Many people make excellent candidates for implant crowns. Healthy gum tissue and adequate bone density create the ideal foundation for successful placement. Patients who smoke or have uncontrolled diabetes may need additional considerations, but these factors do not automatically disqualify someone from treatment.
The team at Ocean Breeze Prosthodontics uses CBCT scanning technology to evaluate each patient’s unique anatomy before recommending a treatment plan. This digital approach to dentistry allows for precise measurements and surgical planning, which contributes to predictable outcomes and comfortable healing.
Single implant crowns replace one missing tooth with one implant post. This straightforward approach works beautifully when surrounding teeth remain healthy. For patients missing several teeth, implant-supported dentures or full mouth reconstruction may provide more comprehensive solutions.
The best dental implant crowns in Delray Beach come from practices that take time to understand individual needs rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach. Every patient is unique, which is why thorough examinations and honest conversations matter so much in prosthodontic care.
The journey toward a completed implant crown typically spans several months. After the initial consultation and imaging, the implant post is placed during a minor surgical procedure. Most patients report less discomfort than expected, and over-the-counter pain relievers effectively manage any soreness.
Healing takes anywhere from three to six months as the bone integrates with the titanium post. During this time, temporary restorations may protect the area and maintain appearance. Once osseointegration completes successfully, the abutment and permanent crown get attached. The final result blends seamlessly with natural teeth, often making it impossible for others to tell which tooth received treatment.
Patients appreciate the step-by-step guidance provided throughout the process. Understanding what comes next reduces anxiety and helps set realistic expectations for timing and results.
Finding the right dental team makes all the difference when considering implant crowns. Dr. Nicholas Goetz brings extensive training and a genuine passion for helping patients regain their smiles. The practice welcomes individuals from Delray Beach, Boca Raton, Boynton Beach, and throughout Palm Beach County who want to explore their options with a qualified maxillofacial prosthodontic-trained dental professional. While not in-network with insurance companies, our team files claims on behalf of patients and assists with securing any reimbursement their PPO plans allow.
Taking the first step toward a complete smile starts with a conversation. The welcoming team at Ocean Breeze Prosthodontics is ready to answer questions, explain the process, and help determine whether dental implant crowns are a good fit for your needs. Contact us to schedule a consultation and discover how this trusted Delray Beach practice can help restore both function and confidence.
With good care and regular check-ups, dental implant crowns can last 20 years to a lifetime. Never fear a root canal again!
Dental implant crowns will make your smile look beautiful and natural again, ensuring you can safely bite again.
Unlike regular dentures, implant crowns allow your mouth to function normally again without difficulty. You can easily bite, smile and talk.
Implant Crowns are the most comfortable of fixed restorations. You won’t need to remove them at night. They feel just like your natural teeth.
Implant Crowns are solid and strong restorations. They are fixed permanently and provide great strength to your bite.
A dental implant crown keeps your surrounding teeth stable and prevent them from changing position (crowding)
It is important to know that a dental implant crown requires a minor surgery. To replace a damaged or missing tooth with an implant crown, our doctors will take some or all of the following steps:
1. Check your oral conditions through an initial comprehensive exam (that your gums and bones are ready to receive the dental implant. This includes x-rays and molds).
2. If bone grafting or gum therapy is needed this will take place before the implant procedure starts.
3. If the damaged tooth or part of it is still in your mouth, the dentist will have to remove it first (extraction)
4. Once your gums are healed, a metal screw will be inserted into your jaw. This is post that will replace the root of your tooth and serve as the new base for the crown or cap.
5. A healing period or “osseointegration” period is needed. The length of this period will depend on each particular case (typically 4 months)
6. Once the implant is integrated, an abutment is attached to the implant. This is a piece that connects the implant post with the crown.
7. Molds will be taken to have the customized permanent crown prepared at the dental lab. The crown will match the size, color and shape of the rest of your teeth.
8. Finally, the new crown is fixed to the abutment giving you a new, natural looking smile.
Dental Implant Crowns FAQ
The cost of any implant crowns varies according to each particular case. Whether you need one or more implants, bone grafting or gum therapy this also influences on the total cost of your work. Having said that, implant crowns usually start at $1500 a tooth, and can go up depending on whether you need a standard or a custom abutment.
Dental insurance coverage varies, but some plans cover approximately 50% of the cost. Keep in mind we are a fee-for service office. However, we work with PPO plans as out-of-network providers. Our staff file the claims for you so you can get reimbursed directly shortly after treatment has been completed.
With proper care, including brushing and flossing daily and getting professional cleanings periodically, dental implants can last a lifetime. Implant crowns could potentially crack if you happen to have a strong bite or grind your teeth. But since they cannot get cavities, they can last longer than conventional crowns. The key is keeping your gums healthy.
A prosthodontist has special training in areas concerning jaw structure and missing teeth. That is why a prosthodontist is the best specialist to perform restorative treatments. They focus on restoring the function, appearance and health of damaged or missing teeth and their surrounding tissues. They are highly trained in cosmetic dentistry, dental implants, crowns, bridges, TMJ, dentures and more.
When you have a missing or severely damaged tooth, a dental implant may be the most effective solution to your problem. You will know if you need an implant restoration and if you are a candidate for one after the initial comprehensive exam. For example, smokers and patients with diabetes are not the best candidates. Once our doctors have checked the state of your oral health and determine you are a candidate, you will get a customized treatment plan that fits your specific needs.
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