Dental care is an essential part of maintaining good overall health. However, many people neglect their dental health until they develop a problem, such as a cavity or a damaged tooth. When this happens, the dentist may recommend either a dental filling or a dental crown.
While both procedures are used to repair teeth, they serve different purposes and require different procedures. This beginner’s guide will explore the difference between dental crowns and fillings, including their purpose, procedure, and cost.
What Is A Dental Filling?
A dental filling is a restorative material used to repair a cavity or small area of tooth decay. Fillings can also repair small chips or cracks in the tooth. The filling material can be made of composite resin, amalgam, porcelain, or gold.
Procedure For Dental Fillings
The procedure for a dental filling is relatively simple and can usually be completed in one visit to the dentist. First, the dentist will use a local anaesthetic to numb the area around the tooth. Afterwards, they will use a drill to remove the decayed portion of the tooth. Next, the dentist will fill the space with the chosen filling material and shape it to match the natural contour of the tooth. Finally, the filling will be polished to a smooth finish.
When Is A Dental Filling Needed?
A dental filling is typically used when a small area of decay or damage needs to be repaired. The dentist will first assess the extent of the decay or damage and then recommend the most appropriate type of filling for the patient.
What Is A Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a cap that is placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to protect it and restore its shape, size, and function. Crowns are typically made of porcelain, ceramic, metal, or a combination of materials.
Procedure For Dental Crowns
The procedure for a dental crown is more complex than that of a filling and usually requires two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the dentist will numb the area around the tooth and remove any decay or damage.
Then, they will shape the tooth to prepare it for the crown. Next, the dentist will get an impression of the teeth and send it to a laboratory where the crown will be fabricated. They will also put a temporary crown on the tooth to keep it safe while the permanent crown is being developed. During the second appointment, the fill-in crown will be taken off, and the permanent crown will be placed onto the tooth.
When Is A Dental Crown Needed?
A dental crown is often the suggested treatment when a tooth is significantly broken down or weak. This may be the result of deterioration, injury, or a failed big filling. In addition to protecting teeth that have had root canal treatment, crowns are also capable of helping fix minor cosmetic issues like changing the form or color of a tooth that has been damaged.
Cost Comparison Between Dental Crowns And Fillings
The cost of dental crowns Tarzana and fillings can vary depending on several factors, such as the type of material used, the location of the tooth, and the complexity of the procedure. In general, dental crowns are more expensive than fillings due to the complexity of the procedure and the cost of materials.
Composite fillings are typically the least expensive option, with amalgam and gold fillings being more expensive. Porcelain and ceramic crowns are usually the most expensive option, followed by porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns and metal crowns.
In conclusion, both dental crowns Tarzana and fillings are essential in restorative dentistry. While both procedures are used to repair teeth, they serve different purposes and require different procedures. Dental fillings are typically used to repair small areas of decay or damage, while dental crowns are used to restore severely damaged or weakened teeth.
The dentist will assess the extent of the damage and recommend the most appropriate treatment option for the patient. It is essential to maintain excellent oral hygiene and go to the dentist regularly to overcome dental issues and maintain good oral health, and who is better than All Smiles Family Dentistry for it?
We are among the best providers of dental crowns in Tarzana and offer a wide range of dental services. These include dental implants, dental veneers, cosmetic dentistry, and a lot more. We have successfully treated several patients, regardless of how complex their dental problems are, thanks to our highly-skilled team of dentists. Get in touch with us today, and we will ensure that all your dental problems go away!
