crowns, dental implants, tooth restoration, Johnson City dentist, tooth replacement, dental health, Blue Plum Dental

When You Need a Crown vs. an Implant

September 7, 2024 9:00 am

When it comes to restoring your smile, crowns and dental implants are two of the most common options. Both serve to repair and replace damaged or missing teeth, but they’re not interchangeable. Knowing when you need a crown versus an implant can make all the difference in your long-term dental health. Let’s explore the situations where each treatment is the best fit.

When to Get a Crown

A dental crown is a custom-made “cap” that covers a damaged or decayed tooth. Crowns are used when the natural tooth is still largely intact but needs extra support.

Situations Where a Crown is Recommended:

  • Severe Tooth Decay: If a tooth is damaged by decay but the root is still healthy, a crown can be placed over the tooth to restore its shape and function.

  • Cracked or Broken Tooth: A crown can protect a cracked or fractured tooth from further damage, preserving the natural tooth structure.

  • After Root Canal Treatment: Following a root canal, a crown is often placed to strengthen the tooth and prevent it from breaking down.

  • To Restore a Worn Tooth: Teeth that are worn down from grinding or acid erosion can be rebuilt with crowns to restore their size and function.

When to Get an Implant

A dental implant is a titanium post surgically placed into the jawbone to replace a missing tooth. Once healed, a crown or bridge is placed on top of the implant. This creates a permanent replacement for the missing tooth.

Situations Where an Implant is Recommended:

  • Completely Missing Tooth: If a tooth has been lost or needs to be extracted, an implant is the best long-term solution to fill the gap and prevent bone loss.

  • Multiple Missing Teeth: Implants can be used to support bridges or dentures when multiple teeth are missing, providing a stable and durable solution.

  • Strong Jawbone Health: For implants to succeed, you need sufficient bone density. In cases of bone loss, a bone graft may be required before the implant can be placed.

  • Permanent Tooth Replacement: Implants are the most permanent solution for missing teeth and can last a lifetime with proper care.

Which Option is Right for You?

Choosing between a crown and an implant depends on the condition of your teeth and gums. If the root of your tooth is still healthy, a crown may be all you need. However, if the tooth is missing or severely damaged, an implant offers a more permanent solution.

Restorative Dentistry at Blue Plum Dental in Johnson City, TN

At Blue Plum Dental in Johnson City, TN, Dr. David Miranda and Dr. Mead Lyons provide comprehensive dental care, including crowns and implants. We’ll work with you to determine the best treatment plan for your smile. Whether you need a crown to restore a damaged tooth or an implant to replace a missing one, we’re here to help. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!

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