Differences Between Dental Crowns and Fillings
Dental Crowns and Dental fillings are both dental restorations used to restore the esthetic and function of teeth. They are both capable of repairing damage done to teeth. However, there are differences between the two. Whether you get a crown or filling, this will be determined by the clinical situation of the tooth.
This blog is a guide to help you understand how dental crowns and fillings work. We will go over the differences between crowns and fillings so that you can walk into your next appointment feeling confident and informed about your dental care options. Below, you’ll find a quick overview followed by more in-depth information about each dental restoration procedure.
Crowns
- Repairs severely damaged or decayed tooth
- Covers large decayed teeth
- More expensive
- Takes 2 dental visits or more
- Requires impressions or intraoral scans.
Fillings
- Repairs minor tooth damage or decay
- Fills in decayed teeth
- More affordable
- Takes 1 dental visit
- No impressions needed
When Crowns Are Recommended
Dental crowns are recommended for patients with severe tooth damage or cavities. If the structural integrity of the tooth has been compromised, Dr.Miski, our specialist dentist recommends dental crowns. Some patients call them “tooth caps.” For intensive tooth repair, a filling wouldn’t be capable of properly restoring the tooth to its natural function and appearance. Teeth that have been weakened by repeated restorative dental fillings may also benefit by being fitted for dental crowns. Another indication, which is very important, that all posterior teeth, which have undergone a root canal treatment, should be capped with crowns as these teeth are often too damaged and secondly, to increase, the success rate of the root canal treatment.
Not only are dental crowns durable, but they also protect your tooth from further damage and sensitivity.
If a crown has been recommended, then it is because the tooth is too damaged to be repaired with a simple filling. A dental crown covers the entire visible portion of the tooth above or at the level of the gum line , capping it like a crown. While dental crowns are more durable than fillings, they are also more expensive and require more invasive treatment.
The receiving tooth will need to be filed down in order to make room for the dental crown. Then, your dentist will take dental impressions or scans and send them to the lab where your dental restoration will be made. A few days later, your crown will be fitted and cemented in place.
When Fillings Are Recommended
When you have a small cavity or a small chipping, you might be able to get away with just having a filling. Your dentist will drill out the tooth and then excavate the decay, fill it in with dental amalgam( silver filling, which we do not use it today in our practice www.drmiski.com) or composite resin( white filling). Nowadays, we are able to use composite resin fillings, which match the color of your natural tooth enamel, which is perfect for teeth that show when you smile and talk.
Unlike dental crowns, fillings only take one visit to the dentist and done in house.
Conclusion
Crowns and fillings are used for different situations to repair smiles. Since both dental restorations have their benefits, it’s important to consult our dentist Dr. Miski, on which procedure is right for you. Different situations call for different treatment options.
For consultation, do not hesitate to call and book your appointment.
