What is an Implant Crown?

If you’re missing one or several teeth dental implants paired with implant crowns are the gold standard for modern tooth replacement. In this video, Dr. Arif Sumar, a prosthodontist at VIVID Prosthodontics, breaks down exactly what an implant crown is, how the process works, who it's for, and why it’s one of the most trusted long-term solutions in restorative dentistry.

Here's what you'll learn in this video:
What implant crowns are and how they work
How long implant crowns last
Whether you're a good candidate for dental implants
The full timeline from extraction to crown placement
The difference between a traditional bridge and an implant crown
Why custom crowns from an in-house dental lab make all the difference
The risks of going abroad for implants and what to watch out for
Real insights from 13+ years of experience with implant restorations

Sections:
0:00 - What Is an Implant Crown?
0:24 - Who Is a Good Candidate for Implants?
0:52 - How Long Do Implant Crowns Last?
1:47 - Implant Crown vs. Traditional Bridge
2:15 - How Long Does it Take to Get an Implant Crown?
2:49 - The Implant Crown Timeline
3:33 - How Custom Implant Crowns Are Made
4:05 - Dentist or Prosthodontist for Implant Crowns?
4:29 - Why an In-House Labs Matters
4:26 - The Risks of Dental Tourism
6:03 - Implant Crowns at VIVID

What is an Implant Crown?
An implant crown is a permanent, custom-made tooth restoration that is attached to a dental implant placed in the jawbone. This two-part system mimics the natural root and crown structure of a real tooth. Implant crowns offer natural esthetics, strong bite function, and long-term durability, often lasting 10 to 20 years with proper care.

Why Implant Crowns Instead of a Bridge?
Unlike a dental bridge that requires shaving down neighboring teeth, implant crowns preserve surrounding teeth and stimulate healthy bone growth. It’s a conservative solution that focuses on long-term oral health.

What’s the Process Like?
From the moment of extraction to your final crown fitting, the entire implant crown process is carefully mapped out. At VIVID, this includes:
Healing periods after extraction and implant placement
Interim tooth replacements (like an Essix or partial denture)
3D-guided surgical planning for precise implant placement
Custom zirconia crowns milled in-house using advanced CAD/CAM technology

We aim for accuracy, function, and aesthetics — all built to last.

Should You Travel Abroad for Implants?
Dr. Sumar addresses the growing trend of dental tourism and why it can come with major risks — from non-approved materials to unavailable parts and poor infection control. Fixing complications can cost more and take longer than doing it right the first time in Canada.

Maintenance & Longevity
To make the most of your implant crown, daily brushing, flossing, water flossers, and regular professional cleanings are key. Night guards are also recommended to protect against bite forces and extend the life of your implant prosthesis.

Still Have Questions?
This video is designed to help you feel more informed and confident when it comes to your dental implant options. If you're considering a dental implant, or simply want a second opinion, Dr. Sumar would be happy to help.

VIVID Prosthodontics
Edmonton’s trusted clinic for full-mouth restorations, custom crowns, and implant dentistry.

Animation Credit: ‪@HunterdonOMS‬

Learn more: https://www.vividdental.ca/