**Is Your Crown Too High After Getting Implants in Mainland China?**
Many people have been traveling to Mainland China for dental treatments, especially for dental implants, due to the convenience of transportation and reportedly good technology and equipment. However, some individuals experience a sense of discomfort when they return to Hong Kong, feeling like something is "blocking" their speech and bite, raising the question: is the crown too high, or is there another reason? Today, let’s explore this issue and discuss the solutions.
**Understanding the Sense of "Blockage" After Getting Implants**
Dental implants involve intricate procedures, including the insertion of artificial roots, waiting for the bone and roots to integrate, and then installing the crown. Ideally, after installation, your bite should feel natural. However, if the height or shape of the crown differs from your original bite position, it can cause a feeling of being "blocked," which is common, especially during the initial period of using new teeth.
**Why Might the Crown Be Too High?**
A crown that is too high leads to premature contact between the new tooth and the opposing teeth, which can feel like you’re biting something when speaking or eating, leading to disharmony between teeth. Possible reasons include:
1. **Insufficient Adjustment During Installation**: The dentist must adjust the crown based on your bite point, but patient feedback during the fitting might not fully reflect real conditions.
2. **Incomplete Post-Surgical Adjustments**: Teeth and surrounding tissues gradually adapt to the new tooth, and during the initial period, the bite might feel higher than usual.
3. **Changes in Jaw Position**: Some individuals change their bite habits due to previous tooth absence, and the jaw needs time to readapt to the proper position once the new implant is in place.
**What Are the Impacts of a High Crown?**
If a crown is truly too high and not addressed over time, it can lead to uneven bite pressure, imposing stress on the tooth root and surrounding tissues. Some people may even experience sore jaws while chewing, or discomfort in the temporomandibular joint. Additionally, the feeling of blockage significantly affects natural speech.
**How Can This B
e Addressed?**
If you suspect your crown is too high, avoid self-adjustment, as crowns have a fixed proportion and shape, and improper adjustments may damage their structure. Its best to consult your dentist for an evaluation and possible fine-tuning. Some cases may simply require a longer adaptation period, and dentists might suggest observing for a few days for any improvement.
**How Long Is the Adaptation Period?**
Typically, the adaptation period after implant placement can range from several days to weeks. During this time, pay attention to whether biting is comfortable and if there is tension in the oral muscles when speaking. If the feeling of "blockage" diminishes gradually, your mouth may be adjusting naturally. However, if discomfort persists or worsens, a prompt follow-up appointment is advised.
**How to Prevent High Crown Issues?**
Many potential issues in the dental implant process can be avoided through:
- **Multiple Pre-Installation Bite Tests**: Before cementing a temporary or permanent crown, ensure to patiently test your bite without rushing.
- **Clear Communication of Feelings**: Immediately voice any abnormal sensations rather than dismissing them as minor issues.
- **Regular Follow-ups**: Post-implant, follow-up appointments allow for reassessment of crown height and bite conditions.
**Important Considerations When Getting Implants in Mainland China**
Going to Mainland China for dental work is convenient, but remember, dental care extends beyond just completing the surgery. Post-operative follow-ups and fine adjustments are critical. Opt for a clinic that offers comprehensive follow-up services so that discomfort can be addressed swiftly, minimizing any inconvenience.
**Conclusion**
Feeling blocked while speaking after getting implants is not necessarily due to a high crown, although it is a common cause. Whether you have your implants in Mainland China or Hong Kong, regular check-ups and communication are essential. If something feels off, seek professional dental advice promptly rather than delaying, ensuring your new teeth are durable and comfortable.
A natural bite and fluent speech are the ultimate goals of dental implants. We hope everyone enjoys the convenience and confidence that new teeth bring!
