What is a dental crown and how is it different from an implant?

Updated: Mar 18, 2023

What is a dental crown and how is it different from an implant?

Dental crowns and implants are both common dental treatments that are used to restore damaged or missing teeth. While they both serve a similar purpose, they are two different procedures that involve different techniques and materials. In this article, we'll explain what a dental crown is and how it differs from a dental implant.

What is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a prosthetic cap that is placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, size, and function. Crowns are commonly used to repair teeth that have been broken, chipped, or decayed beyond the point where a filling can be used. They are also used to cover teeth that have been treated with a root canal or to improve the appearance of misshapen or discolored teeth.

Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of these materials. The type of material used will depend on the location of the tooth, the patient's preference, and the dentist's recommendation. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are often used for front teeth because they are the most aesthetically pleasing, while metal crowns are more durable and are often used for back teeth.

The process of getting a dental crown typically involves two appointments. During the first appointment, the dentist will prepare the damaged tooth by removing any decay and shaping it to fit the crown. They will then take impressions of the tooth and send them to a dental laboratory where the crown will be custom-made to fit the patient's mouth. In the meantime, the patient will wear a temporary crown. At the second appointment, the temporary crown will be removed, and the permanent crown will be cemented into place.

What is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a prosthetic tooth root that is surgically placed into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth or bridge. Implants are typically made from titanium, which is biocompatible and fuses with the bone over time, creating a stable foundation for the replacement tooth. Implants can be used to replace a single missing tooth, multiple missing teeth, or even an entire arch of teeth.

The process of getting a dental implant involves several steps and may take several months to complete. First, the dentist will surgically place the implant into the jawbone. Then, the patient will need to wait several months for the implant to fuse with the bone in a process called osseointegration. Once the implant has fully fused with the bone, an abutment will be attached to the implant, which will serve as the foundation for the replacement tooth. Finally, a crown or bridge will be attached to the abutment to complete the restoration.

How are Dental Crowns and Implants Different?

The main difference between dental crowns and implants is that crowns are used to restore damaged or weakened teeth, while implants are used to replace missing teeth. Crowns are placed over existing teeth to strengthen and protect them, while implants are used to replace the root of a missing tooth and support a replacement tooth or bridge.

Another key difference between the two procedures is the amount of time and cost involved. Getting a dental crown typically requires two appointments and can be completed within a few weeks, while getting a dental implant can take several months and may require multiple appointments. Additionally, dental implants are generally more expensive than dental crowns.

In conclusion, dental crowns and implants are both effective treatments for restoring damaged or missing teeth, but they are two different procedures that serve different purposes. If you have a damaged tooth that needs to be repaired, a dental crown may be the best option for you. However, if you have one or more missing teeth, a dental implant may be the best option for restoring your smile. It is important to discuss your options with your dentist to determine which treatment.

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