Do I Need a Crown or a Filling?

A crown and a filling are two common dental treatments used to restore damaged or decayed teeth. While both procedures serve to repair and strengthen teeth, they differ in their applications and the extent of tooth restoration required.

A filling is typically used to repair small to moderate cavities or areas of minor damage on the tooth surface. During a filling procedure, the dentist removes the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth and fills the space with a tooth-colored composite resin material. This material is then hardened with a special light, restoring the tooth's shape, function, and appearance. Fillings are suitable for relatively minor tooth damage and are often completed in a single dental visit.

On the other hand, a crown, also known as a dental cap, is a more extensive restoration that covers the entire visible portion of a tooth above the gumline. Crowns are used to strengthen and protect severely damaged, weakened, or structurally compromised teeth. They can also be used to improve the appearance of misshapen or discolored teeth. Crown placement typically requires two dental visits: during the first visit, the dentist prepares the tooth by removing any decay or damaged tissue and shaping it to accommodate the crown. An impression of the prepared tooth is then taken and sent to a dental laboratory, where the custom crown is fabricated. At the second visit, the permanent crown is cemented onto the prepared tooth, restoring its function and aesthetics.

Determining whether a crown or a filling is necessary is not always completely straightforward. In some instances, the best choice is a partial crown, referred to as an onlay. The dentist in Phoenix, AZ will ultimately make a recommendation based on a variety of factors like the amount of tooth remaining after the old filling and decay are taken out.

Here is a look at some of the top considerations when deciding between a filling and a crown.

The Condition of the Remaining Tooth

The stability and health of the leftover tooth structure matter a great deal. If ample tooth remains and it is in good shape, a composite filling will prove to be a durable solution. If the leftover tooth is fragile, a partial crown or a full crown can act in place of the tooth structure. The crown by the dentist in 85053 will also bolster the tooth's strength against fractures. If a tooth fracture occurs, a root canal might be necessary. In the worst case, an extraction will be necessary.

The Patient’s Likeliness to Endure Decay or a Tooth Fracture

If there is a good chance the patient will suffer tooth fracture or decay, there is also a heightened chance of cavities. Others are especially hard on their teeth or have a heavy bite. A crown makes the most sense in these instances as a filling has the potential to fracture and spur tooth loss or root canal therapy. A crown is a porcelain or ceramic prosthetic tooth that fits over the current tooth.

If a patient decides to choose a dental crown and properly maintains it, then the dental crown has the potential to last upwards of a decade and a half, if not longer. We can also combine crowns with bridges to provide additional stability when chewing and eating. Call us to learn more.

When Fillings Will Suffice

Think of crowns as ideal for instances of considerable tooth decay and fillings as a means of restoring teeth with less damage. Another difference between these two oral health solutions is that we do not remove any tooth material when adding a dental crown that rests directly over the tooth. A filling involves the removal of decayed tooth material, a cleaning of the tooth and then placing the filling. Fillings are ideal for people looking to maintain as much of their natural tooth structure as possible. They seal the tooth better than many other oral health solutions and also provide the stability that wards off fractures and splitting.

Patients who need minor improvements will benefit from a composite filling material that bonds to the teeth and enhances their visual appeal. Fillings consisting of composite resin have the appearance of regular teeth. Thus, there is no reason to worry about the appearance of your teeth following a filling. The end result will be a lovely-looking mouth with visual uniformity and symmetry. No one will have any idea you have a filling unless they are within inches of your teeth.

Call Phoenix Family Dentistry at (602) 547-9007 to schedule an appointment in our Phoenix office.