If you have a cavity or a broken or infected tooth, you may already know that you’re going to need a filling or a dental crown. But how can you tell which option is best, and what’s the difference between these two treatments? Here’s a closer look at both, and why your dentist may recommend one over the other.
Crown vs. Fillings: What’s the Difference?
Although the two have similar purposes, a filling is a restoration that is designed to replace a small area of a decayed or damaged tooth and can be made of a variety of materials including metals and composite resin. Fillings not only repair the damage to the tooth, but they also help prevent further decay in conjunction with brushing, flossing, and regular dental cleanings.
A dental crown, on the other hand, is a larger, more deluxe type of filling. First, your dentist will need to remove the damaged area of the tooth and reshape it to fit the crown. Then, it will be cemented in place where it should remain securely for up to ten years. Dental crowns are excellent options for restoring teeth with large areas of damage. They are customized to blend seamlessly into your smile using impressions from your untreated tooth and can be made of metals or tooth-colored materials.
Do I Need a Crown or a Filling?
The great news is that no matter if your dentist recommends a filling or a dental crown, both options are excellent ways to restore your tooth and protect your smile from further damage. While it’s always safest to go with the least invasive option available, if they have prescribed a dental crown, you can rest assured that it is the best option for your situation.
Remember, while dental crowns and fillings both solve similar problems, the option that’s best for your smile will depend on the level of damage to your tooth. However, no matter which choice your dentist recommends, you can feel confident in knowing that they have your best interest at heart to protect your smile for a lifetime.
About Our Practice
At Transforming Smiles, Dr. Carter and Dr. Zafrani are proud to help restore and protect your damaged tooth with a variety of treatment options including fillings and dental crowns. If you need to repair extensive damage caused by cavities, decay, infection or other injuries, dental crowns can help. To schedule an appointment for a dental crown, visit our website or call us today at 770-995-7616.