Dental Implants vs Crowns

If you have a tooth that needs to be repaired or replaced, your dentist has most likely recommended two options: a crown or a dental implant. But how do you know which option is best for you? Here are some pros and cons of implants and crowns to help you decide.

Dental Implants

If you are missing one or two teeth, dental implants could be a great solution for you.

Pros

• Dental implants are designed to last a lifetime and do not need to be replaced.

• They are indistinguishable from a real tooth in appearance, feel, and function.

• They will save you money in the long run because they do not need replacing.

Cons

• The initial implant procedure is more expensive than a crown placement.

• The entire process will take longer than having a crown placed (sometimes up to a year from start to finish).

• The procedure requires semi-invasive surgery.

Dental Crowns

Crowns are ideal if the tooth has been damaged or cracked but do not need to be extracted.

Pros

• Having a crown put in is less expensive than an implant.

• A crown will protect the tooth underneath from further damage or decay.

• The procedure is not invasive.

Cons

• Crowns need to be replaced every 5-15 years, adding to the cost.

• The existing tooth usually needs to be filed down – an irreversible process – for the crown to fit.

• Some people experience increased tooth sensitivity after the procedure.

For some patients, a dental crown is the obvious best choice, and for others, the best route is an implant. The best way to know which is right for you is to consult with your dentist. For more information on crowns and implants, call or stop by Ridge View Dental!