If you have a problem with a tooth that can't be easily fixed, then you might need a crown or implant tooth. While both these treatments create a false tooth, they are not the same. What are the differences between the two? 

Dental Crowns: What to Know

Dentists fit crowns over existing teeth. During this treatment, they take an impression of the tooth to create a false tooth. They remove some tooth enamel to make room for the crown. They then stick the crown over the remaining tooth.

Most crowns completely cover a tooth. However, you can sometimes have a partial onlay crown that only covers part of a damaged tooth. You can only have a crown if your tooth is large or sound to provide enough support.

Crowns protect damaged teeth. So, for example, dentists might recommend crowns after root canal treatments or to preserve teeth that have too much decay to hold a filling. This is also a good option for badly chipped or cracked teeth. The crown restores the look of a tooth and protects it.

Dental crown treatments are relatively quick. You'll need a couple of appointments and will have a short wait until your crown is made before your dentist can fit it.

The costs of a crown vary depending on the material used to make the false tooth. If you have dental insurance coverage, then your provider might cover crowning treatments if they are part of a covered procedure such as essential root canal work.

Dental Implants: What to Know

Dentists use dental implants to replace one or more missing teeth. Sometimes, you have an implant immediately after an extraction; however, you can sometimes use an implant to replace a tooth that has been missing for a while.

These false teeth don't have an attachable tooth. So, your dentist inserts a post in your jawbone. Once this post heals into place, they put an implant denture on it. This tooth completely replaces a missing tooth.

Implant treatments are a solid option if you have a gap in your teeth. However, you do need enough bone in your jaw in the area to hold the post. If you do, then an implant is often the strongest and longest-lasting way to replace a natural tooth.

Implant treatments take more time. You have to wait until the post embeds in the bone before your dentist can fit your tooth. Plus, your insurance company might classify them as cosmetic procedures, so you might have to fund your own treatment.

To find out more, contact your local dental office.