Losing a tooth changes more than your smile. In Lemont, we help patients replace missing teeth with implant crowns that look and work like natural teeth. This page covers what implant crowns are, who is a good fit, and what the process looks like from start to finish. We accept new patients and can schedule your consultation quickly. Our goal is to give you a tooth replacement that fits your bite, matches your smile, and holds up long-term.
Two Simple Parts That Work Together to Fill the Gap
What an Implant Crown Is and How It Replaces a Missing Tooth
An implant crown is a two-part tooth replacement. A titanium post goes into your jawbone. A custom crown attaches on top and looks just like your other teeth.
We use implant crowns to fill the gap left by a single missing tooth. Unlike a bridge, this solution does not touch the teeth next to the gap. Many of our Lemont patients come in with older dental work that has worn down or failed — implant crowns are a strong long-term option in those cases.
The post fuses with your jawbone over time
The crown is color-matched to fit your smile
No removal needed — it stays in place permanently
Most Healthy Adults Qualify — We Confirm Everything at Your First Visit
How to Know If You Are a Good Candidate for an Implant Crown in Lemont
Most healthy adults qualify for implant crowns. At your first visit, we take X-rays to check your jawbone and make sure there is enough bone to support the post.
Some patients need a bone graft before placement. That is common and does not disqualify you. If you have a health condition like diabetes or gum disease, we review that too before moving forward. We see many Palos Hills patients who have put off dental care for years — the first appointment tells us exactly what you need.
A Clear Look at Each Stage So You Know What to Expect
What Happens During the Implant Crown Procedure Step by Step
We walk you through every step before we begin. Knowing what to expect makes the process easier.
Here is the general order of care:
Consultation and X-rays to confirm you are a candidate
Post placement into the jawbone using local anesthesia
Healing period while the post fuses with the bone
Abutment placement to connect the post and crown
Crown fitting and final placement
Most patients in Lemont complete this process across three to four visits. We offer early morning appointments near Route 83 in Palos Hills for patients with busy work schedules.
With the Right Care, Your Crown Can Last a Lifetime
How Long Implant Crowns Last and What Affects Their Lifespan
Implant crowns last 15 or more years with proper care. Many patients keep them for a lifetime.
What you do at home matters. Brushing twice a day, flossing, and coming in for regular cleanings all help protect the crown and the post underneath. Illinois winters bring cold air and hot drinks, which can stress natural teeth — but implant crowns do not cause temperature sensitivity the way a cracked tooth does. Palos Hills patients who grind their teeth at night should ask us about a night guard to protect the crown during sleep.
Simple Steps Before You Arrive That Make the Day Go Smoothly
How to Prepare for Your Implant Crown Appointment in Palos Hills
A little prep before your appointment helps things go smoothly. We tell you exactly what to do when you book.
In most cases, preparation is simple:
• Eat a light meal before your appointment if local anesthesia is planned
• Tell us about any medications you take
• Arrange a ride home if you feel nervous about the anesthesia
Our Palos Hills office provides all pre-procedure materials on-site. You do not need to stop at a pharmacy beforehand. Patients in the 107th Street corridor can reach us without a long drive.
GENTLE TOUCH DENTISTRY
10033 S. Roberts Rd. Palos Hills, IL 60465
Phone: 708-233-8199
LEMONT DENTAL CLINIC
14240 McCarthy Rd. Lemont, IL 60439
Phone: 630-914-1500
Quick answers to the questions we hear most.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get an implant crown if I have had bone loss in my jaw?
Bone grafting may allow you to move forward — we evaluate your bone level with a scan at your first visit.
Does getting an implant crown hurt?
We use local anesthesia during placement, so you should not feel pain; mild soreness after is normal and short-lived.
Is an implant crown the same as a dental implant?
The implant is the titanium post placed in your jaw; the crown is the visible tooth that attaches on top — you need both parts for a complete replacement.
