When it comes to restoring damaged or missing teeth, two of the most common options are dental crowns and dental implants. Both treatments can improve the appearance, strength, and function of your smile, but they serve different purposes. Understanding the distinction between them will help you make the right choice for your oral health and budget.

At Century Family Dental in Westborough, MA, our goal is to help patients make informed decisions through transparent care and modern solutions. Let’s explore the differences between crowns and implants, their benefits, costs, and how they fit into your long-term dental health plan.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a custom-made cap placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are often used when the natural tooth structure is still present but compromised due to decay, fractures, or after root canal treatment.

Crowns can be made of materials such as porcelain, ceramic, metal, or zirconia. At Century Family Dental, we provide durable and aesthetic crowns that match the color and contour of your natural teeth for a seamless result.

Common reasons you might need a crown include:

• Protecting a weakened tooth from further damage
• Restoring a fractured or worn-down tooth
• Covering a large filling
• Completing a root canal treatment
• Capping a dental implant

Explore our restorative dentistry services Westborough MA to see how crowns can help rebuild your smile.

What Is a Dental Implant?

A dental implant is a complete tooth replacement solution designed to replace both the visible part of the tooth (the crown) and the tooth root. The implant consists of three parts: the titanium or zirconia post placed into the jawbone, an abutment that connects the post to the crown, and a custom-made crown that serves as the visible tooth replacement.

Implants integrate with your jawbone, preventing bone loss and maintaining facial structure. They are considered the gold standard for replacing missing teeth.

Learn more about our dental implant services and how they can permanently restore your smile.

Key Differences Between Crowns and Implants

While both improve dental aesthetics and functionality, they are used in different situations:

• Purpose: Crowns restore a damaged tooth, while implants replace a missing tooth entirely.
• Structure: Crowns are caps placed over existing teeth. Implants involve a post surgically placed in the jawbone with a crown attached on top.
• Longevity: Crowns last around 10–15 years with proper care. Implants can last 20 years or more.
• Procedure: Crowns usually require 1–2 appointments. Implants involve surgical placement, healing, and final restoration.
• Bone Support: Crowns do not prevent bone loss. Implants preserve jawbone density and facial structure.

If your natural tooth can be saved, a crown is often the most conservative and cost-effective choice. If the tooth is missing or severely damaged beyond repair, a dental implant is usually the better option.

Cost Comparison

Crowns are generally less expensive than implants. A dental crown can range from $1,000 to $2,500, depending on the material and complexity. Dental implants typically range from $3,000 to $6,000 per tooth since they involve surgery, the post, abutment, and crown.

At Century Family Dental, we offer affordable dental services in Westborough, MA, and help you plan treatment that fits your needs and budget.

For implant-supported restorations like All-on-4 implants, check our blog:

What is the Cost of All-on-4 Dental Implants?

When to Choose a Crown vs. an Implant

Choose a Dental Crown if:

• Your tooth structure can be saved
• You recently had a root canal
• You want a faster, less invasive treatment

Choose a Dental Implant if:

• Your tooth is missing or needs extraction
• You want a permanent, long-term solution
• You want to preserve jawbone health

Our general dentistry team will guide you to the best restorative option based on your needs.

Preventive Care and Long-Term Maintenance

Both crowns and implants require good oral hygiene and regular dental visits. Routine checkups, professional cleaning, and proper brushing and flossing are essential to prevent complications.

Learn more about how preventive care can protect your restorations at our preventive dentistry page.

For additional cosmetic improvement, we also offer teeth whitening to enhance your overall smile aesthetics.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Are crowns and implants painful?

A: Both procedures are performed under local anesthesia for comfort. Mild soreness afterward is normal and temporary.

Q: How long do crowns and implants last?

A: Crowns last around 10–15 years, while implants can last a lifetime with proper care and regular visits to your Westborough family dentist.

Q: Can crowns be placed on implants?

A: Yes. Every dental implant is completed with a crown to restore the visible part of the tooth.

Q: What if my crown or implant feels loose?

A: Contact your trusted dentist near Westborough, MA, immediately. Loose restorations can usually be repaired quickly.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between a dental crown and a dental implant depends on your oral health, aesthetic goals, and long-term needs. At Century Family Dental, we provide comprehensive, affordable, and compassionate care to help you achieve a healthy and confident smile.

Whether you require a simple crown, a full implant restoration, or a combination of both, we are here to guide you every step of the way.

Schedule your consultation today at our Westborough dental clinic and find the best option to restore your smile.