A crown is a cap fitted over your tooth's top surface while an implant replaces your whole tooth. With an implant procedure, the dentist replaces your tooth root with a titanium post. The dentist then attaches a metal knob known as an abutment to the post and places a crown on top. 

Since a dental implant procedure involves the use of a crown, many people think the two treatments are the same. However, a dental crown can be used by itself. Here are some main features of both procedures.

Dental Implants Involve One Procedure

One of the benefits of implants over crowns is that they are permanent. You will only go through the procedure once. This minimizes risks and costs for treatments in the future. However, a crown wears out over time; therefore, you will need to go to a dentist for a replacement, which will mean paying additional costs.

Dental Crowns Keep Your Natural Teeth

Many people prefer crowns over implants because they get to keep their natural teeth. A decayed or damaged tooth can be restored through a root canal procedure. With this procedure, you will keep your tooth's root, which helps maintain the spacing of your natural teeth. Furthermore, a dental crown can be placed after the root canal. This is different from removing the tooth's root and replacing it with an implant.

Dental Crowns Take a Short Duration and Quick Recovery Time

A dental crown procedure involves two phases. During the first appointment, the dentist will prepare the tooth and attach a temporary crown to it. In the next appointment, the dentist will use impressions of your original tooth to place a permanent crown. Therefore, you will return to your normal eating patterns after a few days.

On the other hand, a dental implant procedure is invasive and takes longer. After the dentist drills and places the post, you must give the jaw bone time to fuse to the implant. This takes a few weeks. During this time, the dentist will place a temporary crown on top of the implant. Afterward, the dentist will attach a permanent crown. This means it will take some time before you recover from the procedure.

In Closing

A dental implant is cost-effective in the long term and provides a permanent solution that lasts decades if you observe proper oral care. However, the downside is that it requires at least one invasive procedure and significant recovery time. If you fear surgical procedures and want to protect your existing tooth, you should opt for a dental crown. Contact a cosmetic dentist clinic near you to learn more.