Why Choose a Dental Crown Over a Filling?

When you have tooth decay in New York, the professional team at SmilesNY Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry can suggest a filling or a crown to restore oral health and function. Understanding the differences between the two restorative dentistry treatment options is important when making the most informed decision. We can provide professional advice on which is the ideal dental treatment for you after performing a thorough dental exam at our New York City, NY office.

About Fillings

Fillings are used in New York in order to restore teeth that have small amounts of tooth decay. Our dentist will first remove the decayed portion of the tooth. Next, they will clean the tooth and fill it with a composite resin that looks just like your other natural teeth. More serious cavities may require a crown.

When this decay is removed and sealed off, it prevents bacteria from entering the tooth and further tooth decay from developing. At SmilesNY, we provide tooth-colored fillings that provide a natural-looking finish. They can be used on both the front and back teeth for a seamless look and to restore function. We can also remove metal filings and replace them with tooth-colored fillings.

What are Dental Crowns?

Dental crowns are caps or coverings that fit directly over an existing tooth. It is used when a tooth has severe decay. It can protect the rest of the tooth from further damage and will keep the bite intact, too. They can be used in conjunction with bridges to fill gaps between teeth too. Crowns are also used to support large fillings to protect weak teeth or to restore broken teeth. One difference between crowns and fillings in New York, NY is that with a crown, it sits over the existing tooth being treated.

When you receive a crown, you are given a local anesthesia. After you’re numb, our team will prepare your tooth by removing decay. The tooth later can be built up if needed to match the height of the teeth around it. Impressions are taken of your teeth and gums in order to custom create a restoration for you. The lab can even match the tooth’s color to the other natural teeth as well. A temporary crown is placed while the permanent one is made. Once it’s ready, the temporary is removed and the final crown is cemented into place.

Reasons for a Crown

A crown is beneficial for many oral health situations in New York City, NY. They include:

To restore a broken tooth
To restore a worn tooth
To protect a weak tooth with decay from breaking
To hold a cracked tooth together
To cover discolored teeth
To cover a tooth with a large filling that doesn’t have much left
To make cosmetic improvements

Are Crowns Permanent?

Crowns aren’t always permanent. However, with proper care, they can last a long time. For a crown to last, it’s important that the crown is properly fitted for each patient. Bacteria buildup can lead to tooth decay. The goal is to protect the tooth, so at SmilesNY we take care to make sure that our crown is fit properly. A regular oral hygiene routine of brushing and flossing will also provide longevity too, lasting 10 – 15 years.

Differences Between Crowns vs. Fillings

One of the biggest differences between crowns and fillings is that one protects the teeth much more. Crowns can strengthen teeth because they reinforce them. This is because they encase the tooth entirely. It can withstand force without risk of being damaged.

Dental fillings don’t provide this same protection. However, patients in New York City, NY that only need minor improvements may benefit from them. They are ideal for anyone looking to maintain as much of their natural tooth structure as possible.

Learn Whether Crowns vs. Fillings are the Best Treatment Option for you in New York City, NY

At SmilesNY Cosmetic and Implant Dentistry in New York City, NY, we are committed to helping our patients find the most effective treatment methods for their oral health. We provide comprehensive dental examinations where we can detect dental problems that may warrant the need for a crown or a filling. Call our professional team at our New York City, NY office today to schedule an appointment for a dental exam.