Dental Crown vs Implants

Crowns and implants can both be effective ways to replace teeth that are damaged. But they differ in some key ways, which we will discuss here. If you are not sure which one to choose to repair your tooth, then perhaps this will help.

Why Choose Dental Crown?

Usually, a dental crown will only be used to cover up a damaged tooth. Part of that tooth may be chipped away to make space of the crown, and some of the surrounding teeth may be chipped at as well to give it enough space.

The crown acts as a cap, fitting over the old tooth. It doesn't replace the tooth, but it provides it a new covering that is much more effective. It is definitely the economical option, when compared to a dental implant. It won't cost nearly as much, and the entire procedure is a lot faster to complete.

You are also much less likely to have any pain associated with the crown, compared to the implant.

There is a lot of variety when it comes to dental crowns. You can get them made from all sorts of different materials and made to match whatever you have in your mouth already. They can even be used for children to replace damaged teeth, whereas implants cannot.

Why Choose Dental Implant?

Now a dental implant is a far more permanent solution. You can't keep your old, damaged tooth if you opt for an implant. You have to have the tooth taken out entirely. That's because during the implant process the dental professional will need complete access to the gum line and the jawline. The specialist will drill a hole into the jawbone, through the gums and insert a small screw or fastener called an implant. This hooks onto the replacement tooth, securing it in.

Now the implant is very secure. It won't move around once it is settled and it will almost never break or chip. It also supports its own weight, since it is inserted into the jaw. The crown can't do that. It is liable to come off after prolonged use, and it really is a temporary solution to a permanent problem.

While the implant can be more expensive and time-consuming to insert, it is worth the money. Unlike the crown, it will likely never require maintenance and you should never have to replace it.

The implant is certainly the more secure option. It is going to last longer and need work a lot less often. It is a low-maintenance, high-cost solution. But the crown is ideal for certain situations where the implant may be extreme. Young children will be able to tolerate the crown, and if you want to preserve your original tooth or teeth, then the crown allows you to do that. Just know that it may not be as permanent a fix for the problem as you would like. Consult with your dental professional about your choices when you need to replace or fix a tooth.