Dental implants vs. dental crowns
Dental implants and crowns are two possible options for restoring teeth that are damaged or have a lot of decay. However, crowns and implants are two very different types of treatments, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Here’s everything you need to know when comparing dental implants vs. crowns.
What is a dental implant?
When a tooth needs to be extracted because it is too damaged to be saved, a dental implant is often recommended as the best option for restoration. Dentists and oral surgeons recommend implants over other treatments because they are the only dental restoration that replaces the entire tooth, including the root. Jawbone is preserved by replacing the root, which keeps your bite strong and prevents tooth decay that can lead to premature aging.
Dental implants are small posts that are surgically placed to replace the root of a missing tooth. A crown, denture, or bridge is attached to the implant(s), and sometimes an abutment is used to connect the implant to the restoration. Dental implants restore full function and appearance after tooth loss.
If you are choosing between dental implants and crowns, your natural tooth is still there, but it is likely damaged. When weighing whether to replace a tooth with an implant or restore it with a crown, consider the following factors:
Advantages of Dental Implants
Dental implants are a permanent solution. With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, although the restorations they are attached to will need to be replaced occasionally due to wear and tear.
Extraction and replacement with implants may allow you to avoid further procedures.
Depending on the condition of your tooth, keeping it and restoring it with a crown may lead to more dental problems down the road.
Disadvantages of Dental Implants
You will need to extract your tooth first.
Dental implants are used to replace missing teeth that would otherwise require the extraction of your natural tooth. Dentists in Hamilton prefer to be conservative and preserve your natural teeth as much as possible, so implants are rarely recommended unless another tooth is beyond saving.
Dental implants are expensive.
Dental implants are a significant financial investment. If you still have your teeth, it is unlikely that an implant will be covered by insurance, especially if the tooth is healthy and can be surgically removed.
What is a dental crown?
Teeth that are damaged above the gum line are restored with dental crowns. The damaged tooth structure is removed and the remaining tooth is covered with a crown to protect it from further damage, infection, or injury. Crowns are bonded to your teeth and are made of metal alloy, gold alloy, or tooth-colored material.
Crowns have been the treatment of choice for teeth with significant decay or damage for many years. When it comes to dental crowns, there are a few things to consider in terms of pros and cons.
Advantages of Dental Crowns
Some of the advantages of dental crowns over dental implants include:
No surgery is required.
Unlike dental implants, there is no need to extract the tooth with a dental crown. Dental crowns are an easy and simple solution, and since they do not require oral surgery, they do not take up much of your time.
A portion of your natural tooth is preserved with the crown.
This is the best option for your oral health. Dental implants are effective and safe, but they are not without complications. If your tooth root does not need to be replaced, choosing a crown means you will not have to go through a long healing process, possible bone grafting, risk of side effects if they occur, and infection, etc.
Crowns are affordable.
If you have dental insurance, crowns are likely to be covered by your plan, making it a more affordable option.
Disadvantages of Dental Crowns
Crowns need to be replaced.
Unlike dental implants, crowns are not permanent. You should replace them every five to 10 years.
