Your smile is one of the most important aspects of your identity, so making sure it’s healthy and attractive should be a top priority. As time passes, our teeth can begin to break down due to wear and tear from general daily activities like chewing, grinding, and drinking acidic beverages like coffee or soda.
It’s self-evident that when something happens to compromise the structure of our tooth enamel, such as cavities or chips, we need to take immediate action otherwise more damage will ensue. That being said, how do you know if you should opt for a dental crown or tooth implant? Keep reading to see what facts you should consider before choosing between these two common dental procedures. You can also check out Pacific Dental & Implant Solutions for more information on making your decision.
Tooth Implant
The implant procedure has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its various advantages over traditional dental bridges or dentures. Rockingham Dental Centre implants are known for their long-lasting durability, with some lasting up to 25 years or more.
The implant procedure has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its various advantages over traditional dental bridges or dentures. Implants are known for their long-lasting durability, with some lasting up to 25 years or more. They also offer superior functionality, allowing patients to eat, talk and smile with confidence. Additionally, implants can help preserve the shape of the jawbone and prevent the bone loss that can occur with missing teeth.
Despite its benefits, the tooth implant procedure does involve some risks and potential complications. Patients should discuss the procedure thoroughly with their dentist and ensure they are good candidates for the procedure. Some factors that may affect candidacy include overall health, jawbone density, and oral hygiene habits.
The implant process itself typically involves multiple appointments over a period of several weeks or months. During the initial appointment, the dentist will evaluate the patient’s oral health and determine the best course of action. After the implant is placed, the patient will undergo a healing period to allow the implant to fuse with the jawbone. Once the implant has fully integrated, the prosthetic tooth can be attached to the implant.
The Crown
A tooth crown is a cap that covers a damaged or decayed tooth, restoring its shape and size to improve its strength and appearance. Tooth crowns are often made of porcelain, ceramic, or a combination of metal and porcelain and are custom-made to match the color and shape of the patient’s natural teeth.
There are many reasons why someone might need a tooth crown. For example, a tooth may become weakened due to decay or trauma, or it may be misshapen or discolored. A dental crown can help protect the tooth from further damage, improve its function and aesthetic appearance, and even help prevent the need for more invasive dental procedures down the line.
There are several steps involved in fitting and placing a tooth crown. First, the dentist will numb the tooth and surrounding area with a local anesthetic. The tooth will then be shaved down to make room for the crown. Next, the dentist will take an impression of the tooth and send it to a dental lab, where the permanent crown will be fabricated. In the meantime, the patient will wear a temporary crown to protect the tooth.
Once the permanent crown is ready, the patient will return to the dentist’s office for fitting and placement. The dentist will remove the temporary crown and cement the permanent crown in place, making any necessary adjustments for proper fit and bite alignment.
Advantages
- Can be completed in a shorter time frame than an implant
- Requires less invasive treatment
- May be less expensive than an implant
Disadvantages
- May not offer a permanent solution
- Requires more maintenance and replacement over time
- May require the removal of some of the tooth structure
After reviewing the pros and cons of tooth implants and crowns, there’s no clear winner. The decision you make about which dental procedure is right for you should depend on your goals, budget, and preferences. As long as your decision is backed by proper dental advice from a licensed dentist, then you’re sure to find the solution that works well for you and fits into your lifestyle. Just remember: when it comes to tooth implants vs crowns, there really isn’t a wrong choice. So don’t worry too much, whatever you choose will be super-sized with success either way.