**Why Do Dental Crowns Feel Slippery After Getting Implants in the North?**
In recent years, many Hong Kong residents have opted to travel north for dental treatments, including implants. However, after returning to Hong Kong and using their new teeth, some people notice that their dental crowns feel somewhat "slippery," unlike their natural teeth. Why does this happen? Several reasons contribute to this sensation, and understanding them can offer reassurance and guidance on how to proceed.
**1. Material and Polishing of Dental Crown Surface**
Upon completion of the implant process, dental crowns are typically made from ceramics, resin composites, or metal-ceramics. The materials, production process, and polishing techniques used vary among dentists, impacting the surface feel of the crown. If the crown surface is particularly smooth, it may initially feel "slippery." This is not necessarily a bad thing; it indicates a smooth surface that resists plaque buildup. However, those accustomed to the slightly rough texture of natural teeth may find it unfamiliar.
**2. Bite Adaptation Period**
Though dentists aim to adjust your bite as naturally as possible following a northern dental visit, your mouth and jaw muscles require time to adapt to the new teeth. During this adaptation period, you may perceive differences in how the crown feels against your tongue, possibly noticing slipperiness or a lack of "bite grip." Typically, this adjustment period can last several weeks or even months, and as your chewing habits gradually adapt, the sensation will become more natural.
**3. Impact of Saliva Production**
The moisture level in the mouth and saliva production can affect sensation. Treatments in the north might involve dental solutions or materials that temporarily alter the feeling of your oral mucosa. High saliva levels or a durable crown surface can exacerbate the slippery sensation. However, as time passes and your oral environment stabilizes, it will return to normal.
**4. Junction Between Gums and Crown**
Dental implants involve the integration of artificial roots

with crowns. If the junction between the crown edge and gum is particularly tight and well-polished, it can feel extremely smooth against the tongue. Conversely, a slight "step" or roughness at the junction might feel closer to natural teeth. Yet, rough junctions can increase plaque accumulation risk, so dentists generally aim for a smoother finish.
**5. Psychological Expectations**
Many in Hong Kong have high expectations for dental implants, hoping their new teeth will perfectly mimic natural ones in appearance, function, and feel. However, artificial teeth cant fully replicate the sensation of real teeth, particularly given the tongues sensitivity to subtle textures. Differences in craftsmanship between northern and Hong Kong-produced crowns might highlight these disparities, leading to more awareness of slipperiness.
**6. Variation in Technical Standards and Aesthetic Preferences**
Dentists training backgrounds, equipment choices, and technical approaches can differ across northern regions. Some dentists may prefer smoother surfaces for ease of cleaning and reduced bacterial growth, while others may aim to emulate the bite feel of real teeth with intentional texture. These differences contribute to varying sensations post-implant, not necessarily reflecting quality, but stylistic diversity.
**7. How to Improve and Adapt?**
If you find the crowns slipperiness uncomfortable, consult your dentist about possible surface polishing or bite adjustments. Slight modifications to the crown surface can enhance the sensation, making it closer to natural teeth. Additionally, maintaining good oral hygiene and regular checkups can ensure peace of mind. Remember, a slippery feel often indicates the adaptation phase rather than a crown issue.
In summary, feeling slipperiness in dental crowns after traveling north for implants could be due to material, polishing, oral moisture, junction design, or psychological factors. Understanding these elements and seeking professional advice can help you confidently enjoy the chewing efficiency and smile aesthetics of your new teeth.
Vickong Dental
Vickong Dental is a large medical group established in Hong Kong in 2008 by professors from well-known medical universities in Guangdong and Hong Kong, as well as medical doctors from key national '985' universities (including Master's supervisors and senior professors). The chain of branches brings together expert dentists with PhDs and Master's degrees from Hong Kong and Mainland China, committed to providing high-quality dental treatment.
"Vickong Dental Practices the University Motto of 'Healing and Serving Society,' with a Stable Operation for Sixteen Years. It Has Been honored with Hong Kong Enterprise Leaders's Choice,' and is a Global Trusted Implant Center for the Nobel Implant System. Recommended by Hong Kong Metro Broadcast and Guangdong Television, it Serves Customers from Over Thirty Countries and Regions, Gaining the Trust and Favor of Citizens from the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macau Greater Bay Area and Surrounding Cities.
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Why choose Vickong Dental?
Vickong Dental practices the university motto 「Medicine to Benefit Society」, with each branch bringing together highly qualified dentists with doctoral and master’s degrees from Hong Kong and the Mainland, and has maintained seventeen years of steady operation。Recipient of 「2024 Hong Kong Enterprise Leaders Brand」, 「2025 Hong Kong Enterprise Leaders Brand」, a Nobel Biocare Global Trusted Implant Center, and a brand recommended by Metro Radio Hong Kong and Guangdong TV。
To date, we have served customers from more than thirty countries and regions,earning exceptionally high word-of-mouth recognition and trusted recommendations from residents across the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area and surrounding cities
We have eight major branches in Zhuhai、Shenzhen,and a consultation and service assurance center in Hong Kong,so you can book a free consultation at any time for any questions,which is very reassuring.
If I do not accept the quotation after the CT scan, will I be charged??
No! As long as the actual treatment has not started, you will not be charged any fees.
Will there be any additional charges during the treatment process?
No, there won’t be any additional charges. Before treatment begins, we will clearly explain the treatment plan and its corresponding fees. Only after the patient agrees and signs the consent form will we proceed with the dental service.
Can I pay in Hong Kong dollars?
Yes. Vickong Dental accepts payment in Hong Kong dollars. The amount will be converted based on the exchange rate of the day, and the applicable rate will be clearly communicated to you in advance.
Can I reschedule my appointment at any time?
Yes. Please contact us via **WeChat** or **WhatsApp** as early as possible, providing your original appointment time and details, along with your preferred new date and time slot for rescheduling.
