Dental crowns and dental implants are both used to restore damaged or missing teeth, but they serve different purposes. A dental crown is recommended when a tooth is cracked, heavily decayed, or weakened but still has a healthy root. A dental implant is used when a tooth is missing or cannot be saved, replacing both the tooth root and crown. The right choice depends on bone health, overall oral condition, treatment time, and budget. A professional dental evaluation helps determine the most suitable option for long-term function and comfort.
Dental Crown vs Dental Implant: Which Is the Right Choice
- Published on :
- Last updated: December 24, 2025
Losing or damaging a tooth is more than a cosmetic issue. It can affect how you chew, speak, and even how confident you feel when you smile. When patients visit a dentist with a badly damaged or missing tooth, one common question comes up again and again:
Should I get a dental crown or a dental implant?
At Summit Dental Clinic, we often see patients confused between these two options. Both crowns and implants are excellent treatments, but they solve different problems. Choosing the right one depends on your tooth condition, bone health, budget, and long-term expectations.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth. It restores the tooth’s:
Shape
Strength
Function
Appearance
Crowns are commonly used when:
The natural tooth root remains in place, and the crown sits on top.
What Is a Dental Implant?
A dental implant is a replacement for a missing tooth root. It involves:
A titanium screw is placed into the jawbone
A healing period where the bone fuses with the implant
A crown is placed on top of the implant
Implants are used when:
A tooth is completely missing
A tooth cannot be saved
Long-term stability is a priority
An implant replaces both the root and the visible tooth.
Key Difference: Crown vs Implant
| Feature | Dental Crown | Dental Implant |
|---|---|---|
|
Used when
|
The tooth is damaged but present
|
A tooth is missing
|
|
Replaces
|
Tooth surface
|
Tooth root + crown
|
|
Surgery needed
|
No
|
Yes
|
|
Bone preservation
|
No
|
Yes
|
|
Treatment time
|
1–2 weeks
|
3–6 months
|
|
Longevity
|
10–15 years
|
15–25+ years |
When Is a Dental Crown the Right Choice?
A dental crown is ideal when your natural tooth can still be saved.
Best situations for a crown:
The tooth has enough healthy root structure
Cosmetic correction (shape or colour)
Advantages of Dental Crowns
Faster treatment
Less invasive
More affordable upfront
Preserves natural tooth
Limitations of Dental Crowns
The tooth underneath can decay over time
Does not prevent bone loss
May need replacement after years
When Is a Dental Implant the Better Option?
Best situations for an implant:
Severely broken tooth
Recurrent infection
Long-term replacement needed
Advantages of Dental Implants
Feels closest to natural teeth
Prevents jawbone shrinkage
Does not affect nearby teeth
Long-lasting solution
Limitations of Dental Implants
Higher initial cost
Requires surgery
Longer treatment duration
Cost Comparison: Crown vs Implant in India
| Treatment Approximate | Cost (₹) |
|---|---|
|
Dental Crown
|
8,000 – 25,000
|
|
Dental Implant
|
35,000 – 70,000+ |
Costs vary based on material, bone condition, and complexity.
While implants cost more initially, they often prove more cost-effective long-term due to durability.
Treatment Time: What to Expect
Dental Crown Timeline
Tooth preparation
Impression
Crown placement
Usually completed within 1–2 weeks
Dental Implant Timeline
Implant placement
Healing (osseointegration)
Crown placement
Takes 3–6 months, sometimes longer
Impact on Jawbone Health
One major difference many patients don’t realise:
Crowns do not prevent bone loss
Implants stimulate the jawbone
When a tooth root is missing, the bone starts shrinking. Implants help maintain bone structure, which is especially important for long-term oral health.
Crown vs Implant: Which Lasts Longer?
| Factor | Crown | Implant |
|---|---|---|
|
Average lifespan
|
10–15 years
|
15–25+ years
|
|
Replacement need
|
Likely
|
Rare
|
|
Maintenance
|
Good hygiene
|
Excellent hygiene
|
How Dentists Decide the Right Option for You
A dentist evaluates:
Tooth structure
Gum health
Bone density
Bite force
Medical history
At Summit Dental Clinic, treatment planning focuses on preserving natural teeth wherever possible and recommending implants only when necessary.
Final Verdict: Crown or Implant?
There is no single “best” option for everyone.
- Choose a dental crown if your tooth is damaged but still strong at the root.
- Choose a dental implant if the tooth is missing or cannot be saved, and you want a long-term solution.
The right choice depends on clinical evaluation, not guesswork.
At Summit Dental Clinic, the goal is always to guide you toward the option that protects your oral health, comfort, and confidence in the long run.
If you’re unsure which treatment suits your condition, a consultation can help you make a clear and confident decision.
