What is an implant crown?

The implant crown is the visible part of a dental implant restoration. It sits on top of the abutment, a small connector piece attached to the implant fixture in the jaw, and functions as a replacement for a natural tooth. The crown restores chewing ability and closes the gap left by tooth loss.

Crowns are typically made from materials chosen for durability and appearance. Zirconia crowns offer strength and a natural appearance with excellent biocompatibility. Porcelain fused to metal combines a metal substructure with a tooth-colored porcelain layer, providing both strength and aesthetics. All-porcelain options are also available for patients prioritizing a natural look. The choice of material depends on the tooth location, bite forces, and patient preference.

The crown attaches to the abutment through two methods. Cemented crowns use dental adhesive, similar to traditional tooth crowns, and are removed by the dentist if adjustment is needed. Screw-retained crowns have an access hole where a screw holds the crown to the abutment, allowing easier removal for cleaning or repair. Both approaches provide stable, long-term restoration when properly designed and maintained.

Quality implant crowns require careful planning by implant prosthodontics specialists in Columbia to ensure proper fit, bite alignment, and integration with your natural teeth. The crown is custom-made in a laboratory to match your surrounding teeth in color, shape, and size.