If someone has a decayed or damaged tooth, then there are often two restorative treatments that can fix the problem. A filling is usually a great choice, but a crown can be necessary in some cases. However, how can you tell which one is right for you? Ultimately, it depends on your unique case, so here’s a good way to determine which one would help you achieve a problem-free smile.
What Are Dental Crowns Again?
In short, crowns are like caps that sit on top of a tooth. They can be made from many different materials, but most dental practices opt to use all-ceramic or metal-free options. That’s because they look incredibly lifelike while also being durable. Regardless, this restoration is sculpted by technicians in a dental lab. Using your other teeth as a baseline, they will adjust the shape, size, and color so it blends in seamlessly.
This treatment is often recommended for severe damage or decay, as it can fix both look and function with ease. That way, you can feel confident biting and smiling once again.
What Is a Dental Filling?
You might know about fillings as they are usually used to treat a tooth that has a cavity. The affected structure is removed, and the space is then filled with composite resin. Like crowns, it will help give back the look and function while also keeping bacteria out. The material is also colored to match your smile, so it will blend in just as well.
Since this treatment relies on much of the natural teeth still being intact, minor cases of decay and damage often get this option. That way, it can support the tooth while it does its job when eating.
Which Restoration Is Right for Me?
In the end, both a crown and a filling are effective in their own right. Finding out which would be best for you can be done with a consultation with your dentist. They will be able to perform an oral examination and take X-rays to see the extent of the situation and understand your unique case.
Depending on what they find, they will be able to offer their recommendation and explain further about why they think it’s best. Again, a simple filling can be effective for small damage and decay, while a crown can be helpful against bigger ones. Regardless, both are reliable choices that you can benefit from; that way, you can get back to a restored smile in which you feel your best.
About the Practice
At Cottonwood Creek Dental, you benefit from a compassionate team of dentists who look after you and your oral health. We are dedicated to helping the Bozeman community get the stronger set of teeth they deserve with reliable restorative treatments. By using state-of-the-art technology, we can customize your results so you feel confident showing off your grin afterward. If you want to see if a filling or crown is best for you, schedule an appointment or call our office at (406) 582-8010.