Crown vs Dental Implant for Broken Teeth - Which is Best?
Dental crowns and dental implants are two of the most popular solutions for restoring a broken tooth. Each option has its advantages and considerations, and understanding these points will help you make the right decision for your unique situation.
So, you have a broken tooth: crown or implant?
Dental Crown: Preserving Your Tooth
A dental crown, also known as a cap, is a tooth-shaped covering that is placed over a damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance.
Advantages of Dental Crowns
The following are some of the advantages of opting for dental crown services to restore a broken tooth:
Preservation of Tooth Structure
A dental crown is best if the remaining tooth structure is substantial enough to support it. A crown provides a durable and conservative solution when a chipped, broken, or cracked tooth has only suffered minor damage. Your broken tooth can usually be restored with a crown as long as it still has a significant portion of healthy structure remaining and an intact root.
Even fractured teeth can have crowns if the fractures don't extend below the gumline into the root. If the tooth is broken at or below the gumline, there will not be enough remaining tooth structure to attach to the dental crown. Your dentist may recommend extracting the broken tooth and getting an implant instead.
A Less-Invasive Procedure Means Less Pain
A dental crown typically involves a less invasive procedure compared to a dental implant, resulting in less general discomfort during and after the treatment. Patients may experience reduced post-procedural pain and faster recovery times because dental crowns often require minimal alteration to the natural tooth structure. This less-invasive approach can be particularly appealing if you're seeking a quicker and more comfortable solution for your broken tooth.
Cost-Effective
A dental crown is often more cost-effective than an implant, making it an attractive option if you're a patient on a budget. Additionally, some dental insurance plans may offer better coverage for crown placement vs implant placement.
Shorter Treatment Timeline
Dental crowns typically involve fewer dental visits and less time spent in the dentist's chair compared to dental implants. This could be advantageous if you have a busy schedule or prefer a shorter treatment process.
Considerations for Dental Crowns
Keep the following points in mind if you are considering dental crowns:
Limited Longevity
Dental crowns are not as durable or long-lasting as implants and around 50% to 80% of crowns have to be replaced within 15 to 20 years. This is due to wear and tear or changes in the underlying tooth structure and natural root.
Risk of Further Damage
Preserving the natural tooth root doesn't eliminate the risk of decay or a root infection, which may require a root canal procedure in the future.
Dental Implant: Permanent Replacement
The dental implant procedure involves surgically placing a post, usually made of titanium, into the jawbone to serve as an artificial tooth root to replace the natural root of the damaged tooth that was extracted. Once the implant integrates with the surrounding bone tissue through osseointegration, a prosthetic tooth (also called a crown) is attached to restore the appearance and functionality of the missing tooth.
Advantages of Dental Implants
These are some of the advantages of getting implants instead of crowns:
Permanent Solution
Dental implants are best if the damaged teeth don't have sufficient structure or intact roots and can't be saved. Implants are anchored directly into the jawbone and have an average survival rate of 95.4% after 10 years, making them a reliable solution.
Jawbone Preservation
When a broken tooth is lost or extracted, the underlying jawbone can deteriorate over time due to a lack of stimulation. A dental implant helps to preserve bone density by mimicking the natural tooth root, preventing bone loss, and maintaining your facial structure.
Natural Look and Feel
A dental implant closely resembles your natural teeth in both appearance and function. With proper dental care, implants can last a lifetime, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
Considerations for Dental Implants
As with dental crowns, there are some things to keep in mind when choosing implants over dental crowns.
Surgical Procedure
Dental implant placement involves oral surgery and requires adequate bone density and healthy gums for success. Patients with insufficient bone density may require a bone graft to ensure the implant has a stable foundation.
Higher Costs
A dental implant tends to have a higher upfront cost compared to a dental crown. However, many patients consider the long-term benefits of implants (such as durability and improved oral health) to outweigh the initial expense.
Longer Treatment Timeline
An implant requires multiple appointments and anywhere from 6 to 12 months to complete. First, it will require a period of healing after the extraction of the broken tooth. After the extraction site has healed, the implant is surgically placed and must go through the osseointegration process during which the post fuses with the jawbone. This can take 4 to 6 months.
The Emotional and Psychological Impact of a Broken Tooth
A broken tooth can cause a great deal of stress, self-consciousness, and worry—especially if it is visible and causes a lot of pain. It’s crucial to act promptly to have the tooth seen and fixed, and to choose an experienced and compassionate dentist who will make sure it’s restored quickly and in the best possible way.
Dr. Salin, who offers expert dental implant services at our Bakersfield, CA office, understands the profound impact of a broken tooth on a person's self-esteem and confidence and acts quickly to find an acceptable solution. He recognizes the crucial role of proper restoration in not only restoring functionality but also elevating the patient's overall well-being and self-image.
Make the Best Choice with Professional Guidance
The choice between a dental crown and a dental implant for broken teeth depends on various factors, including the extent of damage, overall dental health, and personal preference. Dental crowns are a faster, budget-friendly solution to restore a broken tooth if the remaining tooth structure is sufficient and preservation of the natural tooth is desired. Dental implants do cost more and take longer to complete but provide a comprehensive solution that addresses long-term aesthetic and functional concerns, especially if the damaged tooth can't be saved.
Seeking guidance from an experienced dentist is crucial for making the right choice. With a thorough understanding of your individual needs and circumstances, your dentist will assist you in navigating the decision-making process confidently. Getting professional advice also ensures a personalized treatment plan tailored to deliver great results and restore your beautiful smile.