Dental crowns are versatile solutions for restoring damaged teeth or completing a dental implant. While both dental implant crowns and traditional crowns serve to protect and enhance your smile, they’re not identical. Understanding their differences can help you feel more confident about your treatment options.
What is a Traditional Crown?
A traditional crown is a cap placed over an existing tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. This is commonly used for teeth that are decayed, cracked, or weakened after a root canal.
Structure: Traditional crowns rely on your natural tooth as a base. The tooth is filed down to create a proper fit for the crown.
Attachment: Dental cement secures the crown to the tooth.
Purpose: Traditional crowns protect the existing tooth and improve its appearance.
What is a Dental Implant Crown?
A dental implant crown is the visible part of a dental implant. It attaches to an implant post, which is surgically placed into the jawbone.
Structure: Instead of using a natural tooth, the crown is supported by a titanium post that acts as an artificial tooth root.
Attachment: The crown is secured to the implant using a connector called an abutment.
Purpose: Implant crowns replace a missing tooth entirely, both above and below the gumline.
Key Differences Between the Two
Foundation: A traditional crown relies on the natural tooth for support, while an implant crown is anchored by a dental implant.
Durability: Implant crowns tend to last longer because they’re not susceptible to decay or further damage.
Purpose: Traditional crowns repair existing teeth, while implant crowns replace missing teeth entirely.
Procedure: Traditional crowns involve reshaping the tooth, while implant crowns require implant surgery and osseointegration for a stable foundation.
Which One is Right for You?
If you have a damaged tooth, a traditional crown might be the solution. If you’re missing a tooth, an implant crown offers a long-term, natural-looking replacement.
Explore Crown Options at Queensboro Plaza Dental Care in Long Island City, NY
At Queensboro Plaza Dental Care, Dr. Michael Nguyen, Dr. Jodie Smith, and Dr. Daniel Barayev specialize in restoring smiles with both traditional crowns and implant-supported crowns. Whether you need to repair a damaged tooth or replace a missing one, our team will guide you toward the best option for your smile and oral health.
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