Dental Crown VS Dental Implant: The Pros and Cons

When it comes to dental treatments, crowns, and implants are two of the most popular options. But what’s the difference between them, and which is the better choice for you?

In this blog post, we’ll explain the differences between crowns and implants, the types of available crowns and implants, the procedures involved for each, and the pros and cons of each. 

What are Dental Crowns and Implants

A crown is a dental restoration that covers and encases a damaged tooth. It is made from various materials such as porcelain, gold, or metal and is designed to look and function like a natural tooth. Crowns can be used to restore a tooth that is cracked, decayed, or otherwise damaged.

An implant is a prosthetic tooth root made of titanium surgically placed into the jawbone. Implants are used to replace missing or damaged teeth and can provide a permanent and secure solution.

The benefits of crowns and implants

Crowns are an excellent option for restoring a damaged tooth and can be completed relatively quickly. Crowns provide a more natural look and feel than other dental restoration options, such as bridges or dentures. They are also more affordable than implants. 

Implants are an exception long-term solution for replacing missing teeth or improving the stability of an existing dentition. They support the surrounding teeth, can provide improved speech, and can last for decades with proper care. 

Types of Crowns

• Temporary Crown: Temporary crowns are made with composite resin and act as a placeholder, while a permanent crown is made. 
• Porcelain Fused to Metal Crown: PFM crowns are crowns made of porcelain that are fused to a metal base. They are solid and durable, making them a good choice for the back teeth.
• Metal Crown: Metal crowns can be made from gold, palladium, nickel, or chrome. They are solid and durable but may not be the most aesthetically pleasing option.
• Porcelain Crown: Porcelain crowns are made of an all-ceramic material and provide a more natural tooth color and appearance. 

Check all our Crown & Bridge dental services.

Types of Implants

• Endosteal Implants: Endosteal implants are inserted directly into the jawbone and are the most popular type of implant. Once they are placed, they act as anchors for fixed bridges or dentures.
• Subperiosteal Implants: Subperiosteal implants are placed on top of the bone instead of inside of the bone, making them ideal for patients who have insufficient jawbone to support endosteal implants. 

Check all our Implant dental services.

What is the procedure for applying Crowns and Implants?

See below the procedure of applying crowns and implants, and define how you will explain it to your patients.

Crowns

The procedure for getting a crown typically involves four steps: preparation, impression, temporary crown, and permanent crown. 

1. Preparation: Your dentist will first prepare the affected tooth, removing any decay and shaping it for the crown.
2. Impression: After the preparation is complete, your dentist will take an impression of the tooth to create a custom-made crown that matches the shape of your tooth. 
3. Temporary Crown: Once the impression is taken, a temporary crown is placed to protect the affected tooth while the permanent crown is made.
4. Permanent Crown: The permanent crown is typically ready in one to two weeks and is secured over the affected tooth with a block of dental cement. 

Learn more:

Full Cast Gold Crowns and Bridges

Diagnostic Wax-Ups

Implants

The procedure for getting an implant typically involves five steps: x-rays and planning, surgery, healing, placement of the abutment, and placement of crown. 

1. X-rays and Planning: Your dentist will first take x-rays and plan the best placement for the implant.
2. Surgery: The implant is then surgically placed into the jawbone. 
3. Healing: Once the implant is placed, it typically takes 3 to 6 months for the bone to heal and bond with the implant. 
4. Placement of Abutment: Once the bone has healed, an abutment, or post, is placed on the implant. 
5. Placement of Implant: This post serves as the base for the implant, which is then placed on top of the abutment.

Learn more:

Atlantis™ Titanium Dental Abutments

Keating Custom Abutments

Pros and Cons of Crowns and Implants

Finally, let’s dive in on the pros and cons of crowns and implants and, hopefully, help your patients decide which way they’ll go in the crown vs implant matter!

Crowns

• Pros: Crowns are cheaper and more straightforward than implants, and they can be done quickly. They are also a great solution for restoring a damaged tooth. 
• Cons: Crowns can be less secure than implants, and they can wear down over time. 

Implants

• Pros: Implants are an excellent long-term solution for replacing missing teeth and can provide a secure fit and improved speech. 
• Cons: Implants are more expensive and require a more involved procedure.

Watch the insights of Dr. Steve Tapie, head of Keating’s Implant Department, about successful implant solutions!

Final Thoughts on “Crowns vs Implants”: each has its own advantages and disadvantages

Crowns and implants are two of the most popular dental treatments, and each has its own advantages and disadvantages.

Crowns are a great way to restore a damaged tooth, and they can be done quickly and inexpensively.

Implants are an excellent long-term solution for replacing missing teeth, and they can provide a secure fit and improved speech.

When considering crowns or implants together with your patients, it’s essential to explain all the pros and cons of each option so you’ll make an informed decision!

For more guides like these, keep an eye on our blog and Dental Up!