What’s the difference between a tooth implant and a crown? The relationship between a dental implant and a crown can be confusing. They can be combined in one procedure. And both can be used with other dental restorations.
Let’s clear up the confusion.
1. A tooth implant can function as a foundation for a crown.
A complete tooth implant/crown procedure consists of a strong metal post (artificial root), abutment (connecting piece), and a beautiful crown.
2. A dental crown can be used to protect a compromised tooth.
Removing decay weakens the tooth. Once the decay is removed, a filling may not be enough to restore necessary strength. Likewise, after a root canal procedure, the remaining tooth may need strengthening. A crown may be used in both of these scenarios. This protects what’s left of the tooth and allows normal function
3. A crown can be attached to a dental bridge.
When a tooth has been taken out, a dental bridge may be used to restore part of it. The reason we say ‘part’ is because a dental bridge does not restore the root of the tooth. A crown can be fitted to a dental bridge to restore the visible part of the missing tooth. A dental bridge used to replace one tooth requires the removal of tooth structure from adjacent teeth. With a bridge, it warrants three crowns to replace one missing tooth!
Do you think there can be dilemmas with this type of restoration? You are correct. A dental implant makes much more sense for most patients. Talk to Marcos Ortega DDS for more specifics about why this is true.
Contact Marcos Ortega DDS:
619-295-4545
Location (Tap to open in Google Maps):
306 Walnut Ave Ste 25
San Diego, California
92103