Dental implant vs Crown implant, is there a difference?

March 31, 2021

Regular visits to your dentist are the best way to support good oral hygiene. A couple of times a year for cleanings and check-ups lets your dentist examine your mouth for problems. You routinely maintain a good system of brushing and flossing but sometimes you may require some restorative work. Loss of a tooth due to decay or injury doesn’t mean you have to quit smiling. There are some good ways to fill in the spaces after a tooth goes missing. Dental implants can give you the look and feel of natural teeth.

The terminology can get confusing when dealing with tooth implants vs. crown implants. How do you know the difference between the two?

Dental implant vs Crown

Dental implant vs Crown

Your dentist may suggest a dental implant if you are missing a single tooth or multiple teeth. This type of tooth replacement requires a surgical procedure to place a prosthetic root into your jawbone. The root is composed of titanium making it very strong with the ability to last for years. When considering a dental implant vs. restorative implant your dentist will discuss how the procedure will impact the overall function of your oral cavity.

Benefits of Implants

A dental implant functions as an anchor for a crown, bridge, overdenture or full arc denture. When you have a dental implant as part of your restorative dentistry it can benefit you in the following ways:

  • Improve the function of your teeth
  • Protect and save the structure of your jaw
  • Make your smile aesthetically beautiful
  • Easy maintenance - brush and clean like a natural tooth
  • Lasts longer than other options like bridges and dentures

Cons of Crowns and Implants

There are some other things to consider about dental implants and crowns. Here are several disadvantages:

  • Implants can be more costly than just a crown
  • Crowns may need replacing in a few years
  • Not everyone is a candidate for an implant as it depends on bone mass
  • Implants require more time to heal than using a crown on an existing tooth

How are implants used

When you think of dental implant vs. crown implant, think restorative. An individual crown is created and affixed on top of the implant. It is anchored in place and will give you the look of your natural tooth. If more than one tooth is missing in a row, you can opt for a bridge supported by your dental implants at each end of the bridge.

Your dentist may suggest using several implants to anchor a full arc denture if you are missing all your teeth in your upper or lower jaw. Having an all on 4 implant denture means no more removing of your dentures as you wear them 24 hours a day.

Implants do not require any special care once the treatment is completed. It is always a good idea to continue with a healthy diet, regular brushing and flossing along with staying away from things that could damage your new teeth. Chewing on ice, hard candies or bad habits like biting your fingernails should be avoided.

Choosing to have a dental implant vs. a restorative implant is a discussion you need to have with your dentist. After a comprehensive examination of your jaw and oral health, your dentist will determine if you are a good candidate for this type of treatment.

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