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Implants

Tooth Crown VS Dental Implant

IU dental implant vs crowns

Experiencing tooth pain? Severe decay? Or even tooth loss? It is highly possible then that you have considered dental crowns and implants to treat your issue. Both are a great way to stop pain, but which is better? Tooth crown vs dental implant treatment – let’s debate. Skip to:

What is a tooth crown?

This restorative treatment is used when the top of a tooth is damaged beyond repair, but the root itself is still healthy. Your ceramic, custom-made crown helps to protect and rebuild a damaged and decayed tooth. The procedure includes removing a small amount of enamel to prepare the tooth for the dental crown, before bonding it in place. The treatment is often carried out when a tooth is weakened by cavities that cannot be repaired with a filling, has severe decay or is painfully misshaped.

What is a dental implant?

Unlike a dental crown, a dental implant replaces the entire tooth. The procedure eliminates the pain and embarrassment of broken, worn and missing teeth in just one appointment. What does the process look like? A titanium implant is surgically inserted in the jawbone, followed by an abutment. A porcelain dental crown is then fitted on top. Similar to a tooth crown, it stops pain and helps patients to stop hiding their teeth when smiling or speaking.

Tooth crown: Pros and cons

One significant advantage of this treatment is that the tooth is saved. There’s no extraction required – the crown repairs the tooth and stops pain, while preserving the root. It additionally protects teeth from further erosion. A dental crown boasts impressive longevity. While not as hard wearing as an implant, the crown can last 15 years or longer if properly maintained. This allows patients to enjoy their beautiful new smile for a long time. Just like your natural teeth, a dental crown isn’t indestructible, meaning it may break or fracture. If this happens, the crown will need to be replaced at an extra cost, adding to the already considerable sum of the treatment. Something to note is that the procedure requires part of the enamel being removed. This action is irreversible. So, for those considering a tooth crown, it is important to know that the treatment is a life-long commitment.

Dental implant: Pros and cons

With dental implant, patients have a restored quality of life. You are able to eat your favourite foods without any discomfort, including steaks and apples, while being able to smile with pride once again. One of the biggest advantages of a dental implant is the longevity. If well cared for, the treatment can last up to 20 years. This is because we use the highest quality material possible (grade 5 titanium) and our team of implant surgeons are experts in the field. However, the procedure does come with a high cost. The cost of one tooth implant is £2,800, whereas full mouth dental implants may cost up to £49,995. Furthermore, this treatment is rarely available on the NHS. There are risks associated with this medical treatment. This includes implant failure, infection and nerve and tissue damage. It is also a permanent procedure, and cannot be reversed once completed.

Crown tooth vs implant - which is better?

Let’s do a quick recap of the two treatments:  

ConsiderationDental crownDental implant

Cost

£850 per tooth

£2,800 per tooth

Longevity

15 + years

20 years

Is it invasive?

Yes - part of the enamel is shaved down

Yes – if the tooth is still in the mouth, it is removed and replaced

Is it reversible?

No

No

Material

Ceramic

Grade 5 titanium

  If the tooth can be saved, your dentist may suggest dental crown treatment. On the other hand, if the tooth is extremely damaged or isn’t even the mouth to begin with, dental implants are the better option. To decide which is the best choice, you will have a thorough consultation prior to your dental procedure. Conclusion: Yorkshire Dental Suite are here to assist you with every dental issue. Whether that’s with a crown or an implant, we will eliminate your discomfort and help you to smile with confidence once again. Book your consultation today to kickstart your journey to strong, healthy teeth.