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Dental Crowns vs. Dental implantsA crown involves placing a cap over the teeth to prevent fractures or infections. An implant is a tooth’s root that replaces one or more missing teeth. When making a choice, it is crucial to understand the difference. At Chicago Dental Esthetics, our dental team can help you pick the perfect treatment to enhance your smile and boost your oral health. Here are some things you need to know regarding crowns and implants. Implants Are PermanentAn implant is an artificial prosthetic that serves as a replacement for missing teeth. The root is made from titanium, which is affixed to your gums. Our dentist will then place a crown to make a complete tooth. The crown can last between five and 14 years. Dental implants may last for two to three decades. However, its lifespan depends on how well you care for your teeth replacement. With proper dental hygiene and checkups, an implant can last a lifetime. Implants Prevent Jawbone ResorptionWhen you have missing teeth, your jawbone can deteriorate due to the lack of bite pressure. Your teeth apply pressure on the bone when you bite or chew. It therefore stimulates the jawbone and maintains its bone density. An implant is affixed to the jawbone through a titanium post that mimics the tooth’s root. The titanium post integrates with the jawbone, a process known as osseointegration. However, not all materials can fuse with the bone like titanium. Crowns cover the tooth to prevent fractures and infections. They encase the tooth to minimize damage to the enamel. They can be a solution for broken and cracked teeth. However, crowns cannot stop or reduce bone resorption. They only cover the upper portion of the tooth. The crown material is durable and has a look that mimics the shape and color of your natural teeth. An implant stimulates the bone to limit deterioration, which may cause changes in your facial structure. An implant will not only stop and reverse bone deterioration, but it also restores your bite function and seals gaps. Crowns Are More Cost-EffectiveOne advantage of crowns over implants is their low cost. Placing a crown is a simple procedure that does not involve a lot of preparation. Implants require more expertise and time to install. Some patients will need bone grafting if the jawbone succumbs to resorption. Bone grafting involves taking bone tissue from other parts of your body and transferring it to your jawbone. The dentist will make a small incision to facilitate the placement of the grafted material. The next step is to seal the site with sutures to allow your gums to heal. The bone grafting process may take up to six months to complete. The implant is affixed after your gum tissue has healed. Despite the additional time requirements, an implant could be the best solution to restore your oral health. Nonetheless, implants could be more cost-effective in the long term since they don’t require replacements. The prosthetics also protect your gums and jawbone. You will discuss the options with our dentist to ensure you make the best decision for your oral health. To learn about implants and crowns, call (224) 341-5162 or schedule an appointment with our dentist at Chicago Dental Esthetics. |
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