Restorative Dentistry
Dental Implant Crowns
The modern standard for replacing a missing tooth: a natural-looking crown anchored on a secure implant.
A missing tooth causes problems beyond the gap you can see. Neighboring teeth begin to drift, chewing gets harder on that side, and the bone that used to support the tooth root starts to shrink without a root there to stimulate it. A dental implant replaces both the root and the crown, so it’s the closest thing modern dentistry offers to growing a new tooth: a titanium post that fuses with your jawbone, topped with a custom ceramic crown, and one of the more common reasons patients from around the Conejo Valley come to see us.
Who it’s for
Implants are usually the right conversation when you’re missing one or more teeth and want a fixed, independent replacement, one that doesn’t rely on the health of the teeth next to it, the way a bridge does. They’re not the answer for every situation; whether an implant makes sense depends on the space available, the health and volume of the bone, and your overall health. An exam and some imaging give us, and you, a clear answer.
How treatment works, start to finish
Implant treatment happens in two parts. The surgical placement, the implant post actually going into the bone, is done by a trusted local oral surgeon or periodontist we work with closely; we’ll walk you through who and why for your specific case. After placement, the bone needs time to fuse around the implant, a process called osseointegration, typically a few months, before it’s ready to support a crown.
Once that healing is complete, the restoration work happens here. We design and place the implant crown, the visible tooth, using a digital scan from our Primescan scanner (no impression trays or goopy material) to shape it to match your bite and blend with your smile. Where your case calls for it, we use Atlantis custom abutments, connectors milled specifically for your mouth instead of one-size stock parts, for a more natural fit and contour at the gumline.
Comfort, start to finish
We coordinate your case from the first consultation through the final crown, so you’re not left managing two disconnected treatment plans on your own. For the restorative visits in our chair, we use gentle, precise techniques, including the STA Wand for anesthesia when it’s needed. And because implants help preserve the jawbone and support long-term chewing function, they fit naturally into our Complete Health approach to care.
Getting started
If you’re missing a tooth, or several, schedule a consultation and we’ll take it from there. We work with most PPO plans and are in-network with Delta Dental Premier; call and we’ll verify your coverage before you commit to anything. Replacing several teeth? Ask about implant-supported bridges and All-on-X full-arch options. You can see real results in our patient cases.
Common questions
What is a dental implant?
An implant is a small titanium post that replaces a tooth’s root. Once it has integrated with the bone, we attach a custom crown that looks, feels, and works like a natural tooth.
How long do implants last?
With healthy gums and good home care, implants can last for decades. They’re the longest-lasting tooth replacement available, and regular checkups protect your investment.
Does getting an implant crown hurt?
Restoring an implant with a crown is typically a comfortable, straightforward procedure. For the surgical placement itself, we coordinate with trusted local specialists and look after your comfort at every step.
Why do I have to wait for my crown after the implant is placed?
The bone needs time to fuse with the implant post, a process called osseointegration, before it can reliably support a crown. That healing typically takes a few months. It can feel like a long wait, but it’s what gives an implant its long-term stability.
Can any missing tooth be replaced with an implant?
Often, yes, but not always. Candidacy depends on the space between the neighboring teeth, and the height, width, and health of the bone in that area. An exam with imaging is the only way to know for sure, and if an implant isn’t the right fit, we’ll talk through the alternatives.
Should I choose an implant or a bridge?
It depends on your situation. A bridge uses the neighboring teeth for support and doesn’t require surgery. An implant stands on its own, without altering healthy teeth next to the gap, but it does involve a placement surgery and a healing period. We’ll walk you through both, honestly, so you can decide with confidence.