If you have a damaged tooth, you likely need a dental crown or a filling. Either option could potentially restore your pearly white to its former (and stronger) self. That being said, what if you don’t know which of these two treatments to pick? There’s no need to panic; your Rolling Meadows dentist will gladly help you settle this matter. Just keep reading to learn about dental crowns, dental fillings, and which of these restorations you’re suited for.
What Do Dental Crowns Offer?
Dental crowns really can (and do) treat damaged teeth. However, they’re most effective when the tooth damage is of a particular sort.
Remember that a dental crown is a small, tooth-shaped cap. Due to this design, each one’s role is to cover the top of a damaged tooth and restore its structure and looks. That means crowns generally protect teeth from outside forces and (if tooth-colored) hide flaws from view.
Put another way, dental crowns are most suited for fixing external damage. They cover up a tooth’s exterior fractures with durable material, ensuring bacteria is kept away from your smile’s weak spots. The result is that the crowned area is protected from further harm and won’t suffer more health issues.
What About Dental Fillings?
Today’s dental fillings also repair damaged teeth, but not the way dental crowns do. They’re mainly used to address different kinds of tooth damage.
Unlike crowns, dental fillings are “mixes” of materials that repair teeth. Their main role is to “fill” the empty spaces in a tooth and strengthen its interior. While a filling could repair cracks or chips, it’s only rarely used for this purpose; the material is best used for a tooth’s cavity, not surface issues.
Given these points, dental fillings are ideal for treating internal tooth damage. They “fill in” your cavities and root canals to preserve tooth structure, ensuring bacteria stay away from the tooth’s interior.
Which Option is Better?
Between dental crowns and fillings, there isn’t an objectively “better” option. The treatment that most suits you will be the one that truly meets your needs.
You’ll ultimately want to consult your dentist about your final choice. Since they’ve seen your mouth up close (and have your dental records), they know your oral situation quite well. They can make informed suggestions and recommendations on your tooth’s care.
At this point, you’re in a better position to choose between a dental crown or a filling. Just make sure you talk to a dental provider before you fully commit!
About the Practice
Plum Grove Family Dental is based in Rolling Meadows, IL. Led by Drs. Wang, Modi, and Cheng, our practice excels at warm and personalized dental care. You can count on us for preventive, cosmetic, and even restorative dentistry, all tailored to your smile’s specific needs. Naturally, our team is also ready to provide you with dental crowns and fillings as necessary. For more details or to book a visit, please contact us on our website or by phone at (847)-221-5860.