When it comes to replacing or repairing a tooth, you are down to two options. They include dental crowns and dental implants. It can be difficult to decide which option to pursue. Dental implants are surgical implants which replace missing teeth, whereas crowns are placed on top for ensuring that they function as normal teeth. Crowns are usually placed over existing teeth and look just like natural teeth. They are a great option if you want to fix broken teeth. However, a deeper understanding of the two options is needed to make the final decision between the two. This is where this post comes in handy. It takes a close look at the differences between dental crowns and dental implants.
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are designed to sit on top of existing teeth. They help protect the remaining structure unlike dental implants which replace the entire teeth. It is due to this reason that a dental crown is also known as a cap. It serves as an effective treatment for saving and restoring existing teeth that have undergone root canal treatment or are decayed, broken, chipped, or cracked.
Even though dental crowns are considered fake teeth, they tend to be natural-looking and highly durable as long as the treatment has been carried out properly and the right materials are used. Thus, you can expect dental crowns to blend in with your smile. Generally, dental crowns are the go-to option for restorations where there is an implant or existing tooth in place.
Pros of Dental Crowns
- Help save existing teeth.
- Offer an inexpensive treatment that does not involve removal of existing teeth.
- Provide protection to existing teeth and preserve their life.
- The latest dental crowns tend to be durable and can last a lifetime.
- Availability of a variety of options to achieve the perfect smile.
Cons of Dental Crowns
- The existing tooth has to be filed down for placing the dental crown. This is an irreversible dental procedure which is why you have to consider your options.
- An increase in sensitivity is quite common due to the filing of the underlying tooth. It can take a few weeks for the sensitivity to end.
- Although all-porcelain and ceramic crowns provide the best aesthetics, they are not as long-lasting as porcelain-fused-to-metal varieties which lack the aesthetics that you might be looking for.
- The dental cement used for attaching the dental crown can also weaken with time which can lead to an inconvenience without any prior notice.
Dental Implants
Now that you know more about dental crowns, it is time to cover dental implants. Only when your teeth are unsalvageable and have to be removed would the dentist even recommend dental implants. However, if you have already lost a tooth or more, dental crowns would be required.
As you might have gotten an idea from their name, dental implants are implanted into your jaw bone in place of the missing teeth. They require the placement of a biocompatible, titanium post or screw which is durable and lightweight. Once the post or screw have been firmly anchored in position, it serves a multifunctional purpose. In fact, you can count on it for a number of tooth restorations. A huge difference between dental crowns and dental implants is that dental implants are a non-surgical procedure.
Pros of Dental Implants
- Help replace the entire tooth as well as the tooth root which makes it the ideal option for those of you that have lost a tooth or can no longer save it.
- Prevent bone loss as they are firmly anchored into your jaw. You cannot expect the same from other tooth restoration procedures.
- Once the dental implants are fitted, they act as a permanent fixture and provide a hassle-free solution for teeth replacement. It is due to this reason that dental implants are considered the gold standard for teeth replacement.
- Offer reliable strength to ensure that one can eat what they desire whenever they desire.
Cons of Dental Implants
- A surgical procedure is involved.
- Costs more than dental crowns.
- The treatment takes much longer to complete. It takes about 4 to 6 months for the procedure to be done, whereas dental crowns are ready within a few weeks.
Conclusion
After you have gone through the post, you will know about the differences between dental crowns and dental implants. Generally, dental implants offer a more cost-effective solution in the long run. However, you will need to be prepared for the surgical procedure.