A dental filling is often the first process of recovery when a tooth gets damaged by decay. And, when you walked into the clinic expecting a simple filling but suddenly your dentist suggested you go for a crown, do you know why? Sometimes a dental filling is not strong enough, that’s the reason why expert dentists recommend a crown service. But to know the difference, and to make sure which one is the right choice for your current situation. Below we’ll break down tooth filling vs crown and when to consider each service.
Difference Between Filling and Crown
A filling is suitable for a small damaged area. The dentist eliminates the decayed part and uses a material to fill the gap to restore the tooth’s shape. However, if the cavity is large, the structure of the remaining tooth becomes fragile. Compare fixing a wall with a small patch to fixing a wall where half the bricks are missing. There is a limit to when a patch will be suitable.
This is where a crown is used.
A crown is a protective cap that is applied over the entire tooth. It covers the visible part, and restores the shape and strength of the tooth. Dental crown is often the go-to solution when a tooth has a large filling, which is usually the case with a big cavity. The crown will protect the natural tooth by holding it together, which will prevent further decay. Crowns protect weak teeth from fracturing. Especially for teeth that have been subject to multiple filling procedures and hold dental bridges in place and cover dental implants.
In terms of improving your smile, not only can crowns cover misshapen or discolored teeth, but they can also be used to make cosmetic modifications.
So when do you actually need a crown after a filling?
Basically, a crown is needed when there is a very large filling, a cracked tooth, a root canal in the tooth, or several fillings that have weakened the tooth of multiple replacements, where a crown is necessary not only to restore but to protect the tooth from breaking in the future. And, the fact is that an extra layer of safety can make a huge difference. As, one strong tooth is always better than the one which is waiting to break.
Final Thoughts
At Smilora Dental Clinic, experienced professionals focus on gentle, appropriate treatments that protect your natural teeth while restoring your smile. This clinic incorporates modern dental technology with a patient-first approach to provide best solutions ranging from root canal treatment in chembur, simple fillings to crowns, aligners, and complete smile makeovers at one place.
If you’re not sure whether your tooth needs a filling or a crown, the best step is a quick consultation. With the right diagnosis and timely treatment, you can keep your smile healthy, strong, and pain-free for the long run. Visit our website to book your appointment today!