Tooth decay and cavities require the attention of a dentist in order to be resolved, and dental fillings and dental crowns are two ways they can be treated. While these two treatments can sometimes be used interchangeably, it is usually better to use one or the other depending on the patient’s situation. Here’s some information on the difference between dental crowns and dental fillings and why one might be the better option in certain situations.
What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are prosthetic devices used to restore shape, appearance, and function to a compromised tooth. If a tooth is injured in an accident, suffers extensive tooth decay, or undergoes a root canal treatment, a dental crown can be cemented on top of it to keep it protected from further damage and allow it to continue chewing normally. While they were often made from metals in the past, many modern crowns are made from zirconia, allowing them to resemble your natural teeth while being strong and durable enough to serve you for up to fifteen years or more.
A dental crown may be the best option when:
- The tooth has cracks. While cracks won’t heal on their own, a dental crown can hold the tooth together and prevent it from breaking down any further.
- The tooth has extensive decay. While a filling might be better for small cavities, a larger filling can cause further damage to the tooth by acting as a wedge into its structure during the chewing process. A dental crown, on the other hand, can absorb this pressure.
- The patient wants to cover up a discolored or misshapen tooth. A crown can allow a misfit tooth to match the rest of the smile.
What Is a Dental Filling?
A dental filling is material used to replace damaged tooth structure. Mostly associated with cavities, dental fillings can restore a tooth that has suffered minor damage to much of its original strength and ability. While they were often made from a blend of metals called amalgam in the past, modern dental fillings are usually made from composite resin, allowing for a tooth-colored restoration that forms a stronger bond with the enamel.
A filling may be the proper dental restoration when:
- There are no cracks in the tooth. A filling relies on the tooth’s strength to stay in place, but if the tooth has been compromised by cracks, it may be too weak to be treated with a filling.
- The tooth only has a small amount of decay. Fillings are usually used to treat cavities in their early stages.
- The patient has concerns about cost. Fillings are more inexpensive than crowns and can be placed in a single dental appointment.
It is important to remember that foregoing a needed dental treatment based on cost can lead to more expensive oral health issues later on. Consulting with your dentist will help determine which type of dental restoration is right for you.
About the Author
Dr. Ronald Sherman earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the University of Pittsburgh. He makes every effort to stay up to date with the latest techniques and technologies so he can continue providing his patients with excellent dental services. His office in Issaquah, WA offers general, cosmetic, emergency, and restorative dentistry such as tooth-colored fillings and dental crowns. For more information on what restorative dentistry can do for you, contact his office online or dial (425) 391-4964.