A dental implant crown is a prosthetic tooth designed to replace a missing tooth, functioning as a permanent restoration. While these crowns are engineered for durability, mimicking the appearance and function of natural teeth, there are instances where they may loosen or detach. Understanding these reasons helps in addressing the issue effectively. Although a crown coming loose can be concerning, it does not always signify a catastrophic failure of the entire implant structure.
Why a Dental Implant Crown Might Detach
Several factors can lead to the detachment of a dental implant crown from its underlying components.
One common reason involves the degradation or washout of the dental cement used to bond the crown onto the abutment, the connector piece between the implant and the crown. If not properly removed during placement, excess cement can also contribute to inflammation and bone loss around the implant, potentially affecting the crown’s stability.
Another frequent cause of detachment, particularly in screw-retained crowns, is the loosening or fracture of the screw that secures the crown or abutment to the implant. Normal chewing forces or habits like teeth grinding (bruxism) can exert stress on these screws, causing them to loosen. Screw loosening affects a notable percentage of implant-supported crowns, especially in individuals who grind their teeth.
Crown damage or fracture can also result in what appears to be detachment. The crown itself might chip, crack, or break due to trauma, biting on hard objects, or excessive biting forces. If the crown is damaged, it may need to be replaced, even if the underlying implant structure remains intact. Additionally, an uneven or excessive bite force, known as occlusal issues, can place undue stress on the crown, abutment, or retention screw, leading to loosening or failure.
What to Do If Your Crown Comes Loose
If your dental implant crown feels loose or detaches, remaining calm is important, as it is often not an immediate emergency. Carefully retrieve the crown if it has come completely loose and store it safely. Avoid attempting to reattach the crown yourself with adhesives or by forcing it back into place, as this can cause further damage to the crown or underlying components, and there is a risk of swallowing or choking.
Contact your dentist as soon as possible to schedule an appointment. Prompt intervention can prevent more severe complications, such as gum inflammation or damage to the underlying implant components. While waiting for your appointment, avoid chewing on the affected side and stick to a soft diet to prevent further stress on the area. Your dentist will assess the situation and determine if the crown can be reattached or if a replacement is necessary. In many cases, if the crown is intact and the implant components are sound, reattachment is a straightforward process.
Minimizing the Risk of Detachment
Maintaining a dental implant crown involves consistent care to reduce the likelihood of detachment and ensure its longevity.
Excellent oral hygiene is foundational, including brushing twice daily with a soft-bristled toothbrush and flossing or using interdental brushes around the implant site.
Regular dental check-ups, typically every six months, are also important for professional cleanings and examinations. These visits allow the dentist to monitor the implant and crown for any early signs of wear, loosening, or other complications, assessing the bite and bone levels to identify potential problems before they escalate.
Certain habits and foods should be approached with caution. Avoiding extremely hard candies, ice, popcorn kernels, or very sticky foods can prevent excessive stress on the crown that might lead to chipping, cracking, or detachment. If you grind or clench your teeth (bruxism), wearing a nightguard can protect the crown from the significant forces exerted during these habits. Promptly addressing any discomfort, looseness, or changes around the implant crown with your dentist can help prevent issues from becoming more extensive.