Caps on implants: need to be replaced?
How often do the caps that attach to the implants have to be replaced and do they need to ever be replaced? If caps cemented on vs screwed on can the cap be replaced without destroying the implant? Is there a need to attach the caps on 2 implants by #29 and 30 ?
2 Comments on Caps on implants: need to be replaced?
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Dr. James Doundoulakis -
3/21/2013
Most "loose" implant crowns are due to LOOSE ABUTMENT SCREWS. The restoring dentist should be able to tighten these screws. With some implant systems, this happens more often than others.
The crowns themselves [that are place on the implants] should last MANY years!
Carlos Boudet, DDS DICOI
3/22/2013
The crowns on implants, just like any other dental work, may need to be replaced eventually.
Regardless of whether they are screw-retained or cemented, the implant does not get destroyed if they need to be replaced.
A screw-retained crown can be removed and reattached without damage to the crown, but a cemented crown requires drilling through the crown to access the abutment screw.
If the cement used is hard, trying to remove the crown by tapping it of is risking damaging the crown and the implant.
