Whether you’ve lost a tooth through injury, tooth decay or gum disease, the effect is still devastating. Not only does a missing or damaged tooth knock your self-confidence, but without treatment, it can lead to serious dental issues further down the line. At No Gaps Dental, we’ve helped hundreds of patients replace missing or damaged teeth with two restorative treatments: dental implant crown and crown.
At this point, you may be feeling a little puzzled. You know of dental crowns, and you’re aware of dental implants. But what is a dental implant crown, and how does it differ from a standard crown? More importantly, you want to know which is the best procedure for you.
So, let’s jump in and take a closer look.
Choosing a crown
While both procedures will do a great job of restoring your smile, there are many significant differences between a dental implant crown and a crown. Ultimately, which approach your dentist recommends is likely to depend on the condition of your teeth, gums, and overall oral health.
Should you find yourself a suitable candidate for both techniques, your decision could ultimately boil down to your preference or budget.
The difference between a crown and a dental implant crown
Here’s all the info you need about implant crowns and crowns to help you reach an informed decision.
Dental crown
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cover that fits over a natural tooth. When in place, it envelops the visible tooth from the top to the gum line. Crowns are regularly used to restore the aesthetics and the function of a damaged or weakened tooth. Ultimately, a crown restores a natural tooth to its previous glory and helps prevent further damage from occurring.
Dental crowns are customised to match the surrounding teeth in colour, shape, and size to blend seamlessly into the smile while considering alignment and bite.
A dentist typically recommends a crown in the following situations:
- Where a tooth has been heavily filled, and there is very little natural structure remaining
- To provide support for a badly decayed tooth
- Following root canal treatment to strengthen a weakened tooth
- To prevent further damage to a worn-down tooth or broken tooth
- Cosmetic changes to the size, shape, and colour of unsightly teeth
Dental implant crown
While a dental crown restores a natural tooth with its root intact, a dental implant crown replaces the tooth and its root. Whereas a crown sits above the gum line, a dental implant is embedded into the jawbone to support a crown. The implant remains hidden from view beneath the gums, whereas the dental implant crown is visible to everyone.
Dental implant crowns are strong and durable and can last a long time. However, patients need to be vigilant with their oral care, keeping the gum tissue around the implant free from plaque and bacteria. While the dental implant can’t decay, severe gum disease (peri-implantitis) can cause the implant to loosen, and it may fall out of its own accord or need to be removed by the dentist.
A significant difference between a dental implant crown and a crown is that an implant doesn’t damage healthy teeth or affect their functionality.
But, not everyone is suited to dental implants, as your dentist will explain. Certain medical conditions like heart disease, uncontrolled diabetes and osteoarthritis, and habits like smoking can interfere with the healing process.
How dental implants work?
Unlike dental crowns, which we can the same day with CEREC technology, dental implants require multiple procedures and can take up to nine months to complete.
Dental implants comprise of three parts: a titanium post or ‘tooth root’, an abutment (a connecting piece between the implant and a prosthesis), and a dental crown. The dental implant procedure, in a nutshell, is as follows:
- The dental implant is surgically inserted into the jawbone
- During the healing period, the surrounding bone integrates with the titanium implant to become a permanent fixture in the mouth
- Once the integration has successfully taken place (six weeks or a few months), the abutment is placed in another short surgery.
- After another couple of weeks, when the site has fully healed, and the implant is stable, the dental implant crown is attached to complete the restoration.
What you need to consider?
During an initial consultation, a dentist will conduct a thorough examination of your mouth and teeth and take an x-ray to determine the condition of your bone and assess which of the two procedures would be most suitable for you. Of course, if you are deemed suitable for a dental implant crown or a standard crown, you might want to weigh up the disadvantages of both.
Cons of a crown
Damage – Crowns can chip, fracture, or break depending on the material. It’s important to follow your dentist’s care instructions to avoid potential damage.
Cost – A ceramic crown can cost up to $2,100, according to the 2020 national dental fee survey. You may have to look at options such as dental insurance and payment plans to see if they fit into your budget.
Reshaping – To fit a standard dental crown, the dentist must shave the top and sides of the affected tooth to accommodate the crown.
Sensitivity – Some patients experience tooth sensitivity to extremely hot or cold temperatures following the procedure. This is something to discuss with your dentist.
Cons of a dental implant crown
Cost – Compared to other dental treatments and procedures, dental implants cost the most. You can expect to pay between $3000 to $5500 per tooth – ouch!
Surgery – A patient must undergo surgery to receive a dental implant which sends costs spiralling. While a dental crown can be fitted in a day, dental implants can take up to 9 months to complete.
Crown replacement – While the implant has the potential to last a lifetime, the dental implant crown will likely need replacement around the 15-year mark.
Still not sure which to choose?
Why not schedule an appointment with the team at No Gaps Dental on (02) 8806 0227 to discuss your best options.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
Biomedical and Pharmacology Journal – Reasons and associated problems for not replacing lost teeth
Smile.com.au – How much do dental crowns cost
Smile.com. au – How much does a dental implant cost?