When it comes to fixing up a damaged or decayed tooth, restorative dentistry is a great way to do just that. You can get a filling or a crown to get back your strong bite and aesthetic smile. With these two options available, you may wonder which one to choose if you need one. Here’s all you need to know about these treatments and when they are typically recommended.
When Is a Dental Crown Needed?
As a quick refresher, a crown is like a cap that’s fixed on top of a tooth. It can be made from porcelain-fused-to-metal or all-ceramic, but both are durable and natural-looking. No matter, a dental lab will customize them per patient, so you can trust your results will look seamless in shape, size, and color.
Oftentimes, this restoration is recommended if someone has severe decay or damage. It can fix both the appearance and function of the affected tooth with ease in about two appointments; that way, patients are able to bite comfortably and confidently.
How About a Filling?
You might be more familiar with a filling as it’s commonly used to treat a cavity. The damaged structure is removed and then filled in with a composite resin material. It’s shaded to match your smile, so you won’t need to worry about it looking obvious. Better yet, it helps you regain the function while also keeping bacteria out.
This treatment relies on more of the natural tooth, so minor cases of decay, chips, or cracks are often best suited for it. It’s a great choice for this reason as you can get this simple service rather than a longer, in-depth one when it’s not needed.
So, Which One Do I Need?
If you need a restorative treatment, you might be stuck between the services above. While both are effective in their own right, which one will work best for you? The good news is that you can avoid the guesswork by visiting your dentist. They will do an oral examination and take X-rays to see the severity of the damage. Based on what they find, they will be able to offer their recommendation.
Again, fillings are best for minor situations while crowns are better for major ones. Regardless, both are reliable and will give you results that last for years to come; that way, you can show off your smile without worry and enjoy having a comfortable bite once again.
About the Author
Dr. Spiro Saati earned his dental degree from the Boston University Goldman School of Dental Medicine. He is dedicated to helping the Peabody community get the stronger grins they deserve with restorative dentistry. By using state-of-the-art technology, we can better assess the problem and give you the effective treatment you deserve. If you want to see if a crown or filling is right for you, schedule an appointment or call his office at (978) 531-2185.