When it comes to dental procedures, there are many options available to improve the appearance and functionality of your teeth. Two common procedures that dentists use are tooth crowns and traditional fillings. In this article, we will discuss the advantages of tooth crowns over traditional fillings, and why upgrading your smile with a tooth crown may be the best option for you.
What Are Tooth Crowns?
A tooth crown, also known as a dental crown or cap, is a prosthetic cover that is placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are typically made from materials such as porcelain, ceramic, or metal alloys, and can be customized to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth.
What Are Traditional Fillings?
A traditional filling, also known as a dental filling or restoration, is a procedure that involves removing decayed or damaged tooth material and filling the cavity with a filling material such as silver amalgam, composite resin, or porcelain. Fillings are typically used to restore the function and appearance of a tooth that has been damaged due to decay or trauma.
Advantages of Tooth Crowns over Traditional Fillings
There are several advantages to choosing a tooth crown over a traditional filling. These advantages include:
A. Greater Durability
One of the main benefits of tooth crowns Worth, IL is their durability. Traditional fillings are made of composite resin material and typically last around five to ten years. However, crowns can last up to 15 years or more with proper care. Crowns are made of strong, long-lasting materials and provide greater protection for the tooth than a filling.
B. Better Protection
Crowns provide better protection for the tooth than fillings. When a filling is placed, the dentist removes only the decayed portion of the tooth and fills it in with the composite resin material. However, this leaves the remaining tooth structure weak and susceptible to further damage. Crowns, on the other hand, cover the entire tooth, protecting it from further decay or damage.
C. Improved Appearance
Crowns are also an excellent choice for cosmetic reasons. They are custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your natural teeth, giving you a seamless and natural-looking smile. Crowns can also be used to cover discolored or misshapen teeth, giving you a more aesthetically pleasing smile.
D. More Versatile
Tooth crowns are more versatile than traditional fillings. They can be used to repair a wide range of dental problems, including:
- Decayed or damaged teeth
- Teeth with large fillings
- Cracked or chipped teeth
- Misshapen or discolored teeth
- Teeth that have undergone root canal therapy
E. Less Sensitivity
Tooth crowns can also help with tooth sensitivity. If you have a tooth that is sensitive to hot or cold temperatures, a crown can help insulate the tooth and reduce sensitivity.
The Process of Getting a Tooth Crown
Getting a tooth crown typically requires two appointments with your dentist. During the first appointment, the dentist in Worth, IL will prepare the tooth by removing any decay or damage and shaping it to fit the crown. They will then take an impression of the tooth and send it to a dental lab to create the crown. In the meantime, you will be fitted with a temporary crown to protect the tooth. Once the permanent crown is ready, you will return to the dentist for the final fitting and cementing of the crown onto the tooth.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while tooth fillings are a common and effective treatment for cavities, tooth crowns may be a better option in certain situations. Crowns are more durable, and stronger, and can last longer than fillings, especially in larger cavities or in teeth that undergo a lot of pressure from chewing. They can also restore the tooth’s function and appearance, making them a great option for patients looking to upgrade their smile. However, crowns are more expensive than fillings and require more tooth structure removal, so it’s important to consult with your dentist to determine which option is best for you.
