What is the Difference between a Composite Filling and a Crown?
Some patients are confused between the dental crowns and fillings and if they can have a dental filling done instead of the dental crown. Both are restorative treatments but differ from each other.
About Dental Crown
The dental crown is the tooth-shaped cap which is placed on the tooth for either covering it, or restoring its shape, size, and strength. It also helps in improving the appearance of the tooth.
Porcelain Dental Crowns
The dentists usually recommend a dental crown when the tooth has sustained a significant damage from decay or trauma and the structure of the tooth been impacted. The crown helps in covering your tooth completely right from the gum line to the chewing surface. It holds the structure together and offers stability as it completely covers the tooth. The dental crown can also prevent extreme damage which may require extraction without treatment. The dental crowns are also suggested after root canal procedures as they can help in restoring the function of the tooth from which the pulp has been removed.
About Dental Fillings
The filling is another way of restoring the tooth damaged by decay and brings it back to its normal function and shape. Much advancement has been made in the material of filling and people have several options to choose from.
Composite Fillings
The composites are white/ tooth colored fillings that repair the tooth which has a cavity or has been chipped. They are filled inside the damaged portion of the tooth to seal it and keep the bacteria and decay away. The fillings help in retaining much of the natural tooth structure. They are ideal for sealing the tooth but not great for improving the stability of tooth. It is a good option for minor repairs such as filling the gaps, covering chips, and improving the shape of the tooth as a composite filling material is used to bond your teeth. It also helps in improving the appearance of the tooth. These options are affordable and non-invasive and may also last long if proper care is taken.
