Having a tooth repaired or replaced generally comes down to two options: dental implants or dental crowns.
A crown is a cap that looks like a tooth and is placed over an existing tooth. It can be used to repair a broken tooth. A dental implant is a surgical implant that replaces a missing tooth and has a crown placed on top to look and function like a normal tooth. Choosing between the two requires a deeper knowledge of each individual mouth. Our team will help determine which option is the best for you.
Crowns:
When making a crown, a dentist will essentially create a duplicate of the damaged tooth. For the tooth to function properly, the shape of the crown covering it will include curves, cusps, and ridges. Crowns are made specifically to resemble natural teeth and can achieve a natural look with the use of ceramics and porcelains.
Because teeth are not naturally white, dental crowns can vary in shades of white, and can even be shaded to match the color of the other teeth. When making a dental crown, differences in shape and size of teeth due to various factors such as ethnicity, age, and gender are taken into consideration to produce the most natural-looking crown.
Dental Implants:
Dental Implants are replacement teeth in which the roots are expertly produced to create solid foundations within your mouth. We then implant teeth that have been replicated to match your current natural teeth. These teeth can be either permanent or removable, depending on what your needs and preferences are.
What actually makes up a dental implant is healed medical-grade titanium which fuses with the existing bone structure within your jaw. There are three parts total:
- The Implant – Secures your new tooth to your jaw.
- An Abutment – The connector which holds the crown or tooth/teeth to the implant.
- Crown/Replacement Tooth – The visible part that is crafted to give you a beautiful smile.
Dental Implants are More Expensive
Dental implants are initially more expensive than crowns. Installing a crown requires less time and hardware making it a more cost-efficient option up front. However, a dental implant can last longer than a crown and will not need to be replaced. So depending on how long you have either option, the dental implant can be more cost-effective in the long run.
Dental Implants Require More Time
It can take up to a year to have a dental implant fully finished depending on the work that needs to be done. Patients that need a bone graft to prepare their jaw for the implant may have to wait several months for the graft to heal before having the implant placed. The amount of time that it takes often relies on how fast you heal and how much work needs to be done to secure the implant.
Not All Patients are Eligible for Dental Implants
While it is a common option, not everyone is qualified to have dental implants. Someone with overall poor health may not qualify for dental implants. Being unhealthy can have a major effect on your body’s ability to heal which can complicate the implant process.
Contact our office for a consultation so that we can give you all of the options and help you make the best choice!
