Although dental fillings and crowns may sound the same to most people, they are two different procedures with different objectives and results. When you visit our dentists, depending on the severity of the condition, the spread of infection if any, and the overall structure of the teeth, they may suggest a crown or filling. The conditions warranting these could vary from preliminary to advanced cavities, fracture or weakening of the tooth. How is a Crown Different from a Filling?
The extent of damage is the basic parameter that determines whether a patient needs a filling or a crown. Fillings are suggested for minor cavities where the structure of the tooth is still sound and doesn’t need much external rectification. Crowns, on the other hand, are preferred when there is a large cavity and when there is a visible crack that could prove detrimental to the health of the tooth.
Why Crowns are Better than Fillings?
As a ceramic fixture, crowns give teeth their natural shape while strengthening from within. In a way, crowns give a new lease of life to damaged or infected teeth. This also means that the teeth can become fully functional without causing any discomfort while chewing. While fillings temporarily fill up the problem area, crowns protect the teeth and prevent any further weakening. A significant advantage of crowns is that they can be prescribed even when the natural tooth is severely damaged, a situation where fillings won’t work.
How We Can Help
Our experienced dentists will have to take a close look to find out the level of decay and damage before they can suggest crowns as a procedure. Do keep in mind that fillings are usually done in a single visit, but for crowns, you will usually have to visit us at least twice.
