For hundreds of years, dental implants have been considered the most effective tooth replacement option, mainly due to their permanency and ability to function like natural teeth. Dental implants are made of metal frames and dental crowns. The metal frames or posts are inserted into your jawbone to act as the roots of the missing teeth while dental crowns are placed on top of the metal frames.
But how do these two components connect? There are two ways to attach dental crowns to implants. The first option is to screw them onto the implants, while the second option is to cement them onto abutments that connect to the implants. In this article, we will discuss the benefits and drawbacks of each option.
Screwed Dental Crowns
When you are looking for perpetuity, ease of maintenance, and ease of use, screwed dental crowns are the best choice. Since these crowns are screwed directly onto the dental implants, they can easily be unscrewed for maintenance purposes. This is particularly important when using porcelain crowns because they are often susceptible to cracks due to biting forces. So, you won’t have problems detaching them from the metal posts when they need repair.
Furthermore, it is effortless to retighten or replace the screws when they loosen. It is a predictable and straightforward procedure that can be performed during your regular visits to the dentist. When you want to use your dental implant to anchor a dental bridge, screwed dental crowns are the best choice. The main disadvantage of using screwed dental crowns is that they are less attractive, especially when the crown doesn’t line up perfectly with the gum. That’s why they are commonly used to replace teeth.
Cemented Dental Crowns
Cemented dental crowns help to restore the natural appearance and strength of your teeth. These crowns come in different shapes and colors designed to replicate the top part of your natural tooth. It blends in well with the neighboring teeth, giving you a natural smile. Plus, a cemented dental crown doesn’t need a screw access hole; therefore, it looks more natural than a screwed crown.
Cemented crowns are also better at enduring biting force than screwed crowns. So, they will last longer and retain their original appearance longer than their screwed counterparts. However, cemented crowns are more difficult to repair than the screwed ones because they are not easy to remove. Plus, it is not easy to use them to anchor dental bridges.
Still Have Questions?
Contact Ft. Worth Oral Surgery today and get the latest information on planning your dental implants or crowns. We’re available to answer all of your questions and give you a great customer experience!