After a dental evaluation uncovers cavities or tooth decay, the first question patients often ask is, “Do I need a filling or a crown?” Dental crowns and fillings are two of the most common restorative dentistry treatments, and either can be the right choice for specific cases. While they both repair damaged teeth, they serve different purposes.
What is a dental filling?
Dental fillings are among the simplest restorative dentistry treatments. Dental fillings are used to repair cavities, which are small holes created by tooth decay. Cavities grow over time, so getting a dental filling sooner rather than later can prevent the need for further treatment, such as dental crowns.
When you get a filling, your dentist will first remove decayed material from the tooth and clean it thoroughly to eliminate any bacteria. They then fill the space with a material, typically composite resin or metal amalgam. This straightforward process typically takes just one visit.
Filling a cavity is essential to prevent further tooth decay. Bacteria in your mouth secrete acid, which weakens enamel and lets it wear away. Once a cavity forms, it allows bacteria to build up and accelerates the process.
Eventually, a cavity can work its way through enamel to reach the soft dentin below. From there, it will quickly allow bacteria to enter the pulp tissue in the interior of the tooth. At that point, you have an infection and will probably need a root canal treatment. It’s much easier to fill cavities as soon as they’re spotted.
What is a dental crown?
Dental crowns are another form of restorative dentistry. However, they involve the removal and replacement of much more material than a dental filling. They cover the entire tooth, requiring the removal of enamel to provide a suitable base. They don’t just seal the tooth to keep bacteria out; they also provide structural support.
Crowns are typically used in more serious cases where a dental filling wouldn’t be the right choice. Teeth that are severely decayed could require a filling that’s too large to be stable and dependable. Cracks and chips also often require crowns, as can teeth that are otherwise weakened to the point they can’t function properly.
Getting a dental crown typically requires two visits. During the first visit, your dentist will remove any decayed or damaged material and also shape a base for the crown. Impressions are then taken, which will ensure that your final crown has a perfect fit and matches your smile.
Crowns are made by a dental lab, so you’ll wear a temporary crown to protect the tooth while you wait. After a few weeks, the crown will be ready, and you’ll come in for a second visit. Your dentist will place the final crown, make any final adjustments, and you’re good to go with a fully restored smile.
When do you need either restoration?
While dental crowns and fillings have some similarities, they are typically used in very different cases. Dental fillings are used for minor decay and mild cavities. In these cases, they are necessary to stop decay, but the tooth doesn’t need structural support. Small chips can also be dealt with using a standard tooth filling.
Crowns are used in a variety of scenarios. Extensive decay or dental trauma can leave a tooth weak and unstable. Biting and chewing could eventually cause catastrophic damage. You may also need a crown if your dentist first tries a large filling, but it later fails.
If you need a root canal, then chances are you’ll also need a dental crown. A root canal procedure removes the pulp and nerve tissue inside the tooth. This typically requires creating a large hole in the top of the tooth. After the procedure, the inside is filled, but restoring the biting and chewing surface requires a dental crown.
Materials and Strength
Dental fillings have traditionally used metal amalgam, but today, composite resin is becoming more popular. Metal amalgam has a distinct gray color and can affect patients with metal sensitivities. Composite resin is highly biocompatible and can match the color of your teeth, so that it doesn’t stand out.
Crowns are typically made of porcelain or other ceramic materials, sometimes with metal components as well. These materials are strong and durable, resisting biting forces and wear. Crowns are longer-lasting and more protective than fillings.
Find the Right Solution for Your Smile
If you’ve noticed any signs of tooth decay or cavities, such as pain, sensitivity, or visible damage, then you should ask your dentist in Cumming, Georgia, to take a look. The team at Dentistry at Windermere can evaluate your smile and find the right treatment option based on your unique needs. Schedule a consultation today to find your solution.
