CarolinasDentist Blog

When You Need a Crown vs. Dental Implant

Single dental implant vs. a single dental crown to fix a tooth

Dental crowns and dental implants are both restorative treatments that are used to restore the appearance and functionality of a patient’s smile. A dental crown is a tooth-colored cap that is placed over a natural tooth. In contrast, a dental implant consists of a titanium rod that is surgically placed into the jawbone, after which a crown, bridge, or denture is attached to the top.

At CarolinasDentist, our expert team can assess your smile to evaluate the current state of your teeth. The right restorative solution for your smile depends on many factors. Generally, we recommend procedures that will allow our patients to keep their natural teeth. A tooth that is decayed or damaged but not to the point that it needs to be removed completely can often be preserved and topped with a crown. However, if a tooth is compromised beyond repair or could cause problems for your oral health, we may recommend getting it extracted and replaced with a dental implant.

Benefits of a Dental Crown

Dental crowns are a noninvasive procedure, as they do not require oral surgery. Your custom crown can be completed in just one visit with our state-of-the-art CEREC® technology and digital impressions. Though we do recommend a little caution for a few days as your crown settles, there is virtually no recovery time when it comes to dental crowns.

Dental Implants: A Permanent Tooth Replacement

When it comes to replacing missing teeth, dental implants are often the preferred treatment method due to how similar they are to natural teeth. Implants replace the roots of the teeth with a durable, biocompatible rod. This preserves the strength of your jawbone, maintains your facial shape, and keeps your replacement tooth stable.

Restore Your Smile at CarolinasDentist!

Our team can help whether you need to repair a compromised tooth with a crown or replace a missing tooth with a dental implant. CarolinasDentist offers comprehensive dental services, including restorative care. Contact one of our convenient locations today!

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Andrew Callender

Andrew Callender

Regional Director of Operations

Andrew Callender was born and raised in Denver, Colorado, and serves as one of our Regional Directors of Operations at CarolinasDentist, focusing on our Western NC and Charlotte regions. He joined the leadership team in 2025 and earned his degree from Western Colorado University. Andrew brings over 12 years of experience in dentistry, including more than 10 years of progressive leadership in healthcare operations and three years serving as a Regional Director of Operations. He relocated to North Carolina in 2023 and has quickly made an impact across the region.

Andrew is passionate about delivering outstanding patient care through operational excellence. He is committed to fostering an environment that aligns with CarolinasDentist’s values and culture while leveraging diverse perspectives and experiences to support team success and growth. His leadership style is rooted in collaboration, consistency, and continuous improvement.

Outside of work, Andrew enjoys spending time with his wife and their four children. He’s an avid golfer and also enjoys walking his lab, Harper—making the most of his time outdoors with family and fresh air.

Nate Bunyak

Nate Bunyak

Regional Director of Operations

Nate Bunyak brings a little bit of Pittsburgh grit and a whole lot of energy to everything he does. He is one of the Regional Director of Operations at CarolinasDentist focusing on our Triangle region, joining the team in 2026. Originally from Pittsburgh, PA, Nate graduated from Indiana University of Pennsylvania (IUP) with a degree in Marketing and Management—and has been putting both to work ever since. Three years ago, he traded in steel city winters for North Carolina sunshine—and hasn’t looked back.

When he’s not working, Nate is all about family life with his wife, Melissa, and their three kids—Bryce, Molly, and Connor. Whether cheering on their activities, exploring the outdoors, or simply embracing the joyful chaos of a busy household, he makes the most of every moment with his family.

An avid hiker and nature enthusiast, Nate loves adventures that combine fresh air, beautiful views, and lasting memories. That same adventurous, positive spirit carries into his work—he’s driven, all-in, and always ready to take on what’s next.

Jenna Holland

Jenna Holland

Regional Hygiene Director

Jenna Holland is a Fayetteville native and serves as Regional Hygiene Director, joining the leadership team in 2026. She began her career with CarolinasDentist in June 2016 as a dental hygienist in the Fayetteville office after graduating from Fayetteville Technical Community College. Over the years, she has grown within the organization, building strong relationships with both patients and team members while staying rooted in her passion for patient care.

Jenna is deeply committed to promoting overall well-being through oral health and believes in the powerful connection between a healthy smile and a healthy body. In her leadership role, she especially loves mentoring and coaching hygienists, helping them grow in confidence, strengthen their clinical skills, and develop into exceptional providers. She takes pride in supporting her team and fostering an environment of continuous learning and encouragement.

Her best advice for patients is simple: stay consistent with routine check-ups and cleanings to maintain optimal health. Outside of the office, Jenna enjoys traveling—especially to warm, tropical destinations—and is engaged to her high school sweetheart, adding a personal touch to her passion for caring for others.

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