Have you recently been told you need a dental crown or filling to repair your tooth? You may be wondering what exactly these are, and how a tooth-colored filling differs from a crown. Here are some key differences between the two restorations, and why one may be better than the other in certain circumstances.
Crown vs. Fillings
A filling is a restoration that is used to replace the damaged or decayed area of a tooth. It is typically used for minor damage. Fillings can be made of a variety of materials; however, most dentists use tooth-colored materials because they blend in with the natural tooth and don’t stand out in your smile. Fillings not only restore the damaged area of your tooth, but they also prevent further decay from forming in the area when properly cared for by brushing and flossing.
Conversely, think of a dental crown like a deluxe filling. To get one, your dentist will remove the damaged area of the tooth and leave behind a reshaped portion for the crown to fit onto. Then, it is cemented in place, where it should last for five to ten years. Your dental crown is ideal for restoring teeth with large areas of damage or that have become broken or deeply cracked. It is made from an impression taken of your existing tooth, and like tooth-colored fillings, is designed to blend in with the rest of your smile. Keep in mind that when you elect to get a dental crown, this procedure is irreversible, and you will always need to have a crown on that tooth going forward, as the enamel on your tooth will not grow back.
Which is Better?
The good news is that whether you need a crown or a filling, both work well at protecting your tooth from future damage and restoring it to optimal health. Though it is always best to need less intervention, you can rest assured that if your dentist has recommended a dental crown, this is the best solution for your smile. So, while a filling may be better for small cavities and minor damage, a crown is typically best for larger cavities or following a root canal. Ultimately, the ideal restoration depends on your individual tooth.
Remember, while a dental crown and a filling both have similar goals, which one is right for your smile depends on the level of damage it must repair. Either way, you can feel confident that your dentist knows the best course of action and will only recommend the treatment that is most appropriate for you.
About Dr. Newman
Dr. Ira Newman earned his dental degree from Emory University School of Dentistry and trained at NYU College of Dentistry/Bellevue Hospital Center. He is a former clinical instructor in the Department of Prosthodontics and Restorative Dentistry at NYU College of Dentistry and is currently an attending dentist at Northwell Hospital/Manhasset. He has also trained at the prestigious Dawson Center for Advanced Dentistry and the Spear Center for Clinical Excellence, and is a member of the American Dental Association, Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry, Academy of Biomimetic Dentistry, International Congress of Oral Implantologists, and the Academy of Laser Dentistry. To schedule an appointment for a filling or crown at Gramercy Dental Studio, please visit our website or call us today at 212-924-6890.
