Implant Crowns
in Kansas City
What Are Implant Crowns?
An implant crown is a permanent replacement for a missing tooth. It consists of two parts: a titanium post that’s surgically placed into the jawbone to act as an artificial root, and a custom porcelain crown that Dr. Jensen designs and attaches on top.Together, they create a restoration that looks, feels, and functions just like a natural tooth.
Unlike a bridge, which relies on neighboring teeth for support, an implant crown stands on its own. It doesn’t require any modification to the teeth next to it, and because the titanium post fuses with your jawbone, it actually stimulates bone growth and prevents the bone loss that normally happens after a tooth is lost.
At Staley Dental Arts, Dr. Jensen handles the crown portion of the implant process. Once your implant post has been placed and has fully healed, she designs a custom porcelain crown that matches the shade, shape, and size of your surrounding teeth. The result is a seamless, permanent tooth replacement that you care for just like the rest of your smile.
Benefits of Dental Implant Crowns
- Looks & Feels Natural | Custom porcelain matched to your surrounding teeth for a result that's virtually indistinguishable from the real thing.
- Permanent Solution | Unlike dentures or bridges, an implant crown is a fixed, long-term replacement that can last a lifetime with proper care.
- Preserves Jawbone | The titanium post stimulates bone growth and prevents the bone loss that naturally occurs when a tooth is missing.
- Protects Neighboring Teeth | An implant stands on its own without grinding down or relying on the teeth next to it for support.
- Easy Maintenance | Care for it just like a natural tooth. Brush, floss, and keep up with regular checkups. No adhesives, no soaking, no special routine.
- Restores Full Function | Eat, speak, and bite with complete confidence. An implant crown handles everything a natural tooth can.
Implant Crowns vs. Other Replacement Options
When it comes to replacing a missing tooth, you have options. A bridge fills the gap by anchoring to the teeth on either side, but requires modifying healthy teeth to do so. Dentures and partials are removable and more affordable, but they don’t prevent bone loss and can feel less stable over time.
An implant crown is the only replacement option that mimics the full structure of a natural tooth, root and all. It’s the most durable, most natural-feeling solution available. Dr. Jensen will help you weigh the pros and cons of each approach based on your situation, timeline, and budget. Explore some of our related services below.
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What to Expect With Implant Crowns
Evaluation & Planning
Dr. Jensen evaluates your mouth using digital X-rays and 3D imaging to determine if an implant crown is the right option and builds a treatment plan tailored to your situation.
Implant Post Placement
A titanium post is surgically placed into your jawbone. A healing period of 3 to 6 months allows the post to fuse securely with the bone.
Impressions & Custom Crown
Once everything has healed, Dr. Jensen takes detailed impressions and designs a porcelain crown matched perfectly to your natural teeth.
Final Placement
Your custom crown is attached to the implant post and adjusted for a comfortable, natural bite. You'll leave with a permanent tooth that looks and feels like your own.
Ready for a Permanent Solution?
Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers to the most common questions about dental care, treatment options, and what to expect before your appointment.
How long does the implant crown process take?
From start to finish, the process typically takes 3 to 6 months. Most of that time is the healing period after the titanium post is placed, allowing it to fuse securely with your jawbone. Once healed, Dr. Jensen designs and places your custom crown in just one to two visits.
Does getting an implant crown hurt?
The post placement is done under local anesthesia so you won't feel pain during the procedure. Some soreness and swelling afterward is normal and usually manageable with over-the-counter medication. Most patients say the recovery was easier than they expected.
How long do implant crowns last?
The titanium post can last a lifetime with proper care. The porcelain crown on top typically lasts 15 to 20 years or longer before it may need to be replaced. Regular brushing, flossing, and checkups are the best way to protect your investment.
Am I a good candidate for an implant crown?
Most adults with good overall health and adequate jawbone density are good candidates. Dr. Jensen uses 3D imaging to evaluate your bone structure and will let you know if an implant is the right option or if another approach may work better for your situation.
How do I care for an implant crown?
Exactly like a natural tooth. Brush twice a day, floss daily, and keep up with regular cleanings and exams. There's no special maintenance required. Dr. Jensen will check your implant crown at every visit to make sure everything looks good.
Does insurance cover implant crowns?
Coverage varies by plan. Some dental insurance plans cover a portion of the crown, and some medical plans may cover part of the implant post placement. Our team will verify your benefits so you know what to expect. We also offer financing through CareCredit and HFD.
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My permanent crown was put on Tuesday. It is a good fit and the bite is great. Very happy.
