Everything You Need to Know About Dental Crowns & Implants

Untreated cavities aren’t just uncomfortable; they can interfere with everyday activities like eating, speaking, and even learning. Left alone, they can progress into an abscess, a severe tooth infection that may spread to other parts of the body and, in rare cases, become life-threatening. 

Two of the most reliable solutions are dental crowns and dental implants, both designed to restore tooth strength, bite function, and a natural-looking smile. While they serve different purposes and are recommended in different situations, understanding how they work can help you make an informed decision about your care by comparing what a dental crown is, what a dental implant is, and when each treatment is recommended.

Continue reading to find answers to the most common questions patients ask about these two treatments, as well as where to find the best restorative dentist in Miami Beach to restore your smile and confidence. 

What Is the Difference Between Dental Crowns and Dental Implants?

Dental crowns and dental implants are both designed to restore your smile, but they do so in very different ways:

• A dental crown works like a protective cap that fits over a damaged or weakened tooth, covering it to restore strength, shape, and appearance. Crowns rely on the natural tooth as a base, and in cases of a missing tooth, they’re placed on top of an implant that has already been surgically placed. 
• A dental implant, on the other hand, replaces a tooth that’s completely missing. It requires a small titanium post to be surgically anchored into the jawbone, acting like an artificial tooth root, and then a dental crown is attached on top. 

While both restorative dental treatments can improve how your smile looks and functions, they solve different problems: crowns preserve and protect the teeth you still have, while implants replace teeth that are missing or can’t be saved. This makes understanding the difference important when deciding which option is right for your dental health.

How Long Do Crowns and Implants Last?

When it comes to longevity, dental crowns and implants both offer strong, lasting solutions, but their lifespans are a little different: 

• Dental crowns typically last about 10 to 15 years. However, with excellent oral hygiene, routine dental checkups, and protection from habits such as teeth grinding, some can last decades. 
• Dental implants are even more durable, often lasting a lifetime when supported by healthy gums, good oral hygiene, and regular dental checkups. Still, factors such as clenching your teeth at night, untreated gum disease, or inconsistent dental care can reduce the lifespan of either option. 

Dental Crowns vs. Dental Implants: Which Option Is Right for You? 

Deciding between a dental crown and a dental implant depends on the condition of your tooth and overall oral health: 

• A dental crown is often the best choice if your tooth structure is still strong enough to support it but needs protection after decay, a large filling, or cosmetic improvement. 
• A dental implant is the right option if your tooth is missing or too damaged to be saved, since it provides a permanent, natural-looking replacement from root to crown. 

To help you make the right decision, your dentist will carefully evaluate factors like bone density, gum health, and your overall oral condition before recommending the treatment that will best restore your smile. 

Crowns vs. Implants: Which Restorative Treatment is Easier to Get Done? 

The process for getting a crown or an implant differs mainly in terms of time required and the involved steps. A dental crown is usually completed in two visits: during the first, your dentist reshapes the tooth and takes dental impressions, and during the second, the custom crown is placed. In some offices, same-day crowns made with cutting-edge dental technology can streamline this into just one appointment. 

A dental implant requires more steps, starting with a consultation to check your bone and gum health. Then, at another appointment, a titanium post is surgically placed into your jaw to act as the tooth root, followed by a three to six-month healing period called osseointegration, when the bone fuses with the implant. Once healed, a crown is attached on top.

How Much Do Dental Crowns Cost Compared to Dental Implants? 

Dental crowns are generally less expensive, with the price depending on the material used. Options like porcelain, ceramic, metal, and zirconia each offer different levels of durability and aesthetics. Dental implants are typically a larger investment, but they are longer-lasting and provide added benefits such as preventing bone loss in the jaw. Insurance often helps cover crowns since they’re considered a restorative treatment, while implant coverage may be partial or limited depending on your plan. Even with the higher upfront cost, many patients opt for implants due to their long-term value and natural feel.

How to Care for Your Dental Implant or Dental Crown

After getting a crown or implant, it’s normal to experience some mild tooth sensitivity, mouth soreness, or gum swelling, but these symptoms usually fade within a few days as your mouth adjusts. Once healed, caring for your new restoration is similar to caring for your natural teeth: daily brushing, flossing, and regular dental checkups are essential to maintain your dental restoration’s health and longevity. With proper care, both crowns and implants will allow you to chew comfortably again, protect your oral health, and enjoy the confidence that comes with a strong, natural-looking smile.

Where to Find the Best Restorative Dentist in Miami Beach for Dental Crowns and Dental Implants

At Miami Beach Smiles, restorative dentistry is designed to restore confidence and enhance your everyday life. Dr. Tommy Gaertner brings both passion and expertise to every treatment by combining years of experience with ongoing education to ensure our patients receive the very best in modern dental care. 

We use advanced dental technology in a comfortable, welcoming environment to make every visit feel seamless, whether you need a single crown or a more comprehensive treatment plan. What truly sets us apart is our personalized approach. Dr. Gaertner and our team take the time to understand your unique needs, creating solutions that are as functional as they are beautiful. 

Ready to restore your smile with help from the best restorative dentist in Miami Beach, whose commitment to gentle care and lasting results is unmatched?