When Do I Get the Abutments for My Implants and Do I Need Them?
Sheri asks:
I am in the process of obtaining four dental implants (started back in 2007). I underwent a sinus lift on the right side. There was no mention of bone grafting but I was charged an additional fee for bone grafting. On my followup visit, implants were healing well. I cancelled my last appointment with the dentist who placed the implants because I felt he was price gouging as he kept adding more charges. When trying to get the crowns, my regular dentist said I don't have the abutments so does that mean I only have "healing caps" or "cover screws"? Shouldn't abutments have been placed already? What is my next step in this treatment plan? Can I get crowns without the abutments?
Hi Sheri,
Most implant specialists/ periodontists place healing abutments on top of the implants, and then the restorative (regular) dentist places the final abutments and the crowns. This is very common and this is what we do in my practice.
It is best to get both fees, surgeon and restorative dentist up front. In our offices we present our fees(which includes only the healing abutment) and note that restorative fees (final abutment and crown(s) are not included. You may want to check your estimates.
Your next step, in your case, is to have your restorative dentist take impressions and place final abutments and crowns. Unfortunately you cannot get crowns without the abutments.
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