Dental Implants VS Crowns: The Key Differences
Do you feel like your teeth are holding you back from living life to the fullest? Whether they’re broken, missing or just worn down, Yorkshire Dental Suite has a range of treatments on offer. Enquire now.
Implants and crowns are two popular types of dental restorations. Depending on the problems you are experiencing and the condition of your teeth, the best option for you will differ. Dental implants versus crowns – let’s begin.
Dental implants vs crowns: What are they and how do they work?
Let’s start with dental implants. This procedure is offered to patients with broken, worn and missing teeth who are living in constant pain and embarrassment. It is a permanent replacement and typically used as a last resort.
Comparatively, dental crowns (often nicknamed ‘Turkey Teeth’) are a versatile treatment that restores the function and aesthetics of a tooth. A crown is designed to replace damage on the visible portion of a tooth, leaving the root intact.
Both are multi-functional, meaning they can be used to address a wide range of problems. To help differentiate the two, we have listed the most common dental issues and assigned it to the most suitable procedure.
Issue | Treatment |
Implants | |
Broken teeth | Implants or crowns |
Crowns | |
Cracked or chipped teeth | Crowns |
Large cavities | Crowns |
Teeth worn down by grinding (bruxism) | Implants or crowns |
Pain when eating | Implants or crowns |
You may have noticed that some of these overlap. If you cannot save the tooth with a crown, or the damage is below the gum line, your dentist will talk you through your dental implant options.
Dental implants vs crowns: Procedure
The main surgery of your implant treatment is carried out in just one appointment, giving you a same-day transformation. Here’s what the appointment consists of:
- You are first given sedation or local anaesthetic, making the procedure pain free
- If still present in the mouth, the tooth is removed
- An incision is made in the gum
- A titanium post is screwed into the jawbone
- An abutment is attached
- Then, depending on your treatment, a temporary crown or bridge is attached
3 – 4 months later, once your mouth has healed, you will return to the clinic to have your permanent tooth attached. Now, let’s move onto crowns.
- You are first given sedation or local anaesthetic, making the procedure pain free
- The tooth is modified
- Impressions are taken of the teeth
- Your temporary crown is fit
Once your permanent crown is ready (usually within 2 - 4 weeks), you will return to the clinic to have the temporary crown removed, and the final one fitted.
Dental implants vs crowns: Cost
Are dental implants more expensive than crowns? Yes – allow us to explain why. The implant procedure is lengthy, complex and requires the expertise of a specialist. Alongside this, the manufacturing process requires state-of-the-art technology and pricey materials to bring your new smile to life.
The crown procedure is comparatively less complicated and can be carried out by any qualified dentist. They are still relatively expensive however, with prices typically starting from £400 in the UK. A dental implant varies anywhere from £1,400 for a single tooth to £50,000+ for full mouth restorations.
The cost may vary based on the clinic you go to. It also increases if you need any supporting treatments to make the procedure a success, for example, bone grafts or hygiene appointments for gum disease.
Dental implants vs crowns: Pros and cons
Both have the ability to improve your quality of life. They also have disadvantages to be aware of prior to booking your appointment.
Dental implant pros | Dental implant cons | Dental crown pros | Dental crown cons |
If well cared for, implants can last 20+ years | If well cared for, crowns can last 15+ years | One of the most expensive dental treatments | One of the more expensive dental treatments |
Looks and performs just like natural teeth | Extremely versatile, treats a wide range of issues | Very rarely available on the NHS | Not indestructible. Susceptible to damage |
Allows you to eat your favourite foods without pain | Allows you to eat your favourite foods without pain | Invasive surgery required, which is irreversible | Temporary tooth sensitivity in the first 2 weeks |
Helps to prevent bone loss and artificial ageing | Preserves the tooth, rather than removing it | Risks of infection and/or failure of the implant altogether | Requires irreversible removal of the enamel |
Improved confidence in social settings | Improved confidence in social settings | A lengthy healing period which may last 3 – 4 months | Improper placement can lead to decay |
Main surgery is carried out in just one day | Helps to protect against further decay and damage | Not suitable for people with certain medical conditions | Risk of speech being temporarily altered |
Which is better, dental implants or crowns?
In our opinion, there is no ‘better’ treatment. Both are designed to address different oral health needs, and are extremely effective in treating broken, worn and damaged teeth. The experts at Yorkshire Dental Suite only recommend implants if nothing else can be done to save the tooth, or if there is no tooth to save in the first place.
If there is a chance that the tooth may be fixed, rather than removing and replacing it altogether, we recommend a dental crown. Rest assured, your dentist will discuss with you in great detail your options during your initial consultation.
Conclusion:
Feeling unsure as to which treatment is best suited to your smile? Contact Yorkshire Dental Suite for a consultation. With nine clinics located across the UK, your new, healthy smile is just around the corner.