Depending on the severity and location of the damage done to your tooth, your Pearl Shine Dental dentist may offer you two options: a large filling or a dental crown. What are dental crowns and why would you want to choose that over a filling or why might a filling be better? There are several reasons, but it is important to understand the difference between the two types of tooth repair first.
When you receive a filling, the cavity is cleaned out and either a silver amalgam or a plastic resin substance is used to build up the tooth to the proper shape. Dental crowns are much different as much of the outside of the tooth is removed so that a cap, or “crown,” can be placed over it.
There are pros and cons to each so making the right choice for you is important. What factors should you consider when choosing fillings over dental crowns?
Size of the Filling Needed
While a filling may be an option, if it would be a very large filling it may not be the best choice. If the filling doesn’t need to be very big, choosing dental crowns may be detrimental to the tooth. Your dentist will be able to provide more insight as to the extent and location of the damage and may even be able to give you their opinion. However, there still is a choice to be made and that choice is yours.
The strength of the Tooth
Dental crowns can help to strengthen a weak tooth as it covers the entire tooth. If the tooth that needs to be repaired already shows signs of weakness, then dental crowns may be best for you. If the tooth is still strong and just needs to be repaired, a filling may be able to do the job just fine. Once again, your dentist can tell you how strong the tooth is. They can do this by using x-rays but also through a visual exam.
Time in the Office
Sometimes it is not the condition of the tooth or the amount of damage needing repair, but the time you have available to get this repair done. Dental crowns typically take much longer to place and may require two visits or more. A filling, however, can usually be done in one visit which makes it a little easier for those with busy schedules, work requirements, school, or other commitments.
Cost of Dental Crowns vs. Fillings
As you can imagine, dental crowns cost a bit more. If you are paying out of pocket or if your dental insurance doesn’t cover the full cost of dental crowns, you may not have this as an option. If you feel it would be the best option for you, there are financing options such as Care Credit and Lending Club that can help you get the right tooth repair.
At Pearl Shine Dental in Houston, we strive to offer you the best care possible, even if it means giving you the choice between dental crowns and fillings if either is an option. Stop by or call to make an appointment if a cavity or other tooth damage is causing discomfort and we can help you make the best choice for your issue by educating you on the damage, the tooth strength, as well as the procedures themselves