Dental crowns and fillings are two of the most common restorative procedures, used to treat a variety of issue ranging from mild to moderate in nature. While they both serve a similar purpose of rebuilding and protecting teeth, they’re often recommended in different scenarios. Read on to learn the difference between these two treatments and which one may fit your needs best.
What are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are small, cap-like structures created to fit over the biting surface of teeth, or the structure that lies above the gumline. They can be crafted from a variety of materials, including metals and natural-looking porcelain and ceramic.
The treatment begins with your dentist removing a small amount of enamel to allow your restoration to fit atop the treated tooth. Once the preparation is complete, your dentist will capture an impression of your tooth that they’ll send off to a dental laboratory. From there, they’ll create the restoration to fit and resemble your affected tooth and send it back to your dentist. As soon as it arrives, you’ll be asked to come back into the office so your dentist can cement the crown to your tooth and make sure your bite is even.
When are Crowns Necessary?
Dental crowns can be used to address a multitude of problems. In some situations, they can even be combined with fillings to offer additional protection. Here are some cases in which your dentist may recommend a dental crown:
- A tooth is severely damaged
- A tooth has a large filling due to extensive decay
- A tooth is worn-down or weak
- A tooth is severely discolored or misshapen
- A tooth has received root canal treatment
What are Fillings?
Like dental crowns, dental fillings can also be made from different materials. However, today, most dentists utilize composite resin, as it offers a more natural appearance and requires less preparation of your natural tooth due to its biocompatible nature.
To place a filling, your dentist will clear away any decayed dental structure and debris and sanitize the area. They’ll then match the shade of your tooth to composite resin, which is a putty-like material, before shaping it to resemble the removed or missing part of a tooth. Once it has been fused to the tooth and cured using UV light, they’ll texturize and add details to the resin to make it look virtually indistinguishable from your natural dental structure.
When are Fillings Necessary?
Fillings are most commonly used for teeth that have minor to moderate cavities. Not only are they incredibly cost-effective and natural-looking, but they offer both aesthetic as well as health benefits. They seal off the inside of teeth to protect them from the threat of decay and infection, all while restoring the tooth’s structure for a natural, healthy-looking smile.
The best way to learn whether you could benefit most from a dental crown or filling is to visit your dentist for a checkup. They’ll capture X-rays and conduct a thorough examination of your teeth, helping you choose a conservative, yet effective, way to rejuvenate the health of your smile.
About the Author
Dr. Moji Chandy has over a decade of experience practicing dentistry, as well as hundreds of hours of continuing education under her belt. As the owner and full-time dentist at Aegis Dental, she focuses on building trusting, long-lasting relationships with her patients, helping them make educated, great decisions for their smiles. For questions or to schedule a checkup and cleaning, visit Aegis Dental’s website or call 972-492-6700.