At McLevin Dental Clinic, designing implant crowns is a highly detailed process that blends advanced technology, clinical precision, and esthetic craftsmanship. While patients see only the final crown that restores their smile, much happens behind the scenes to ensure each implant crown functions flawlessly and looks completely natural.
This blog offers a deep dive into how our dental team designs and delivers custom implant crowns, especially for cases requiring advanced planning, digital workflows, and precision engineering.
Step 1: Clinical Assessment and Implant Readiness
Before we design the crown, our first task is to confirm that the dental implant has successfully integrated into the jawbone. Using 3D imaging and digital X-rays, we evaluate:
Bone stability around the implant
Health of surrounding soft tissues
Position and angulation of the implant post
Only after confirming full osseointegration and tissue healing do we proceed with crown design. This step is crucial because any instability in the implant base can compromise crown longevity and function.
Step 2: Digital Impressions for Custom Design
Next, we take a precise digital impression using our intraoral scanning system. This creates a highly accurate 3D model of the implant, abutment (if already placed), and surrounding teeth. Unlike traditional molds, digital scans are more comfortable for the patient and deliver more reliable data to our lab.
These scans also help us visualize how the new crown will align with the bite and adjacent teeth, particularly in complex cases involving multiple implants or misalignment.
Step 3: Abutment Selection or Custom Design
The abutment is the small connector that joins the implant to the crown. Depending on the clinical case, we either:
Choose a stock abutment for straightforward cases
Design a custom abutment using CAD/CAM software for more complex situations
Custom abutments are used when the implant is placed at an angle or when the patient has unique gingival contours that require extra precision. The shape, height, and angulation of the abutment are fine-tuned to ensure optimal fit, esthetics, and support.
Step 4: Crown Material Selection
The choice of material plays a major role in the success and esthetics of the implant crown. At McLevin Dental Clinic, we use high-quality materials like:
Zirconia: For durability and esthetic translucency
Lithium disilicate (e.max): For natural-looking anterior restorations
Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM): When strength is the primary concern
Material selection is based on the location of the implant, the patient’s bite force, and esthetic expectations. For front teeth, we prioritize lifelike appearance, while for molars, strength and resistance to wear are key.
Step 5: Crown Design Using CAD Software
With all components scanned and planned, our design team uses computer-aided design (CAD) tools to create the crown. These tools allow us to:
Shape the crown for ideal occlusion
Match the contours to surrounding teeth
Build appropriate contact points to prevent food impaction
Adjust surface texture and color for a natural look
In cases with multiple adjacent implants or opposing restorations, we simulate jaw movement digitally to prevent future bite complications or crown fractures.
Step 6: Fabrication at the Dental Lab
Once the crown design is finalized, it is sent to a specialized dental lab for milling and finishing. Using computer-aided manufacturing (CAM), the lab mills the crown from a solid block of zirconia or ceramic, ensuring strength and accuracy.
The crown is then hand-finished to match the patients natural tooth color and texture. This may involve layering porcelain, staining, and glazing the crown for a seamless appearance.
Step 7: Try-In and Esthetic Evaluation
When the crown is ready, the patient returns for a try-in appointment. We check for:
Fit at the margin of the gumline
Occlusion with upper or lower teeth
Shade and translucency match
Comfort when biting or chewing
In esthetically demanding areas like the front teeth, we encourage patient feedback before final cementation. If necessary, minor adjustments are made to enhance esthetics or function.
Step 8: Crown Placement and Final Bonding
The final implant crown is secured using either:
Screw retention: Where a small screw anchors the crown through the abutment
Cement retention: Where the crown is bonded using dental cement
Our dentist selects the retention method based on crown accessibility, implant angle, and ease of future maintenance. Screw-retained crowns offer easier retrieval if repairs are ever needed, while cement-retained options may offer better esthetic results in visible areas.
Once placed, we polish the crown, verify the bite again, and provide immediate care instructions.
Step 9: Post-Placement Follow-Up
To ensure long-term success, we schedule a follow-up appointment within a few weeks. This allows us to:
Check gum tissue response
Evaluate bite comfort
Inspect crown wear and polish
Reinforce home care instructions
Patients are advised on implant hygiene, including daily brushing, flossing with threaders, and using interdental brushes or water flossers.
Why Our Workflow for Implant Crowns Matters
Our workflow at McLevin Dental Clinic is designed to deliver:
Precision-fitted crowns with minimal adjustment
Strong, long-lasting materials tailored to your bite
Natural-looking restorations that enhance your smile
Streamlined coordination between clinical and lab teams
Fewer appointments and more efficient outcomes
Whether you’re replacing a single tooth or completing a full-mouth restoration, our team ensures your implant crown is not just functionalbut indistinguishable from your natural teeth.
Final Note
Designing implant crowns is a multi-stage process that requires both technical expertise and artistic sensitivity. At McLevin Dental Clinic, we bring both to every case, creating restorations that look great, feel natural, and last for years.
If youre considering dental implants or need an implant crown, schedule a consultation with our team. Were ready to help you rediscover confidence in your smilestarting with precision at every step.