Are you experiencing tooth pain? It might be caused by decay or a cracked or broken tooth. There are two ways to fix a tooth that can prevent complete removal. Crowns and fillings are both effective solutions to restoring your oral health. While they may sound similar, these are significantly different. With a bit of knowledge about crowns vs fillings, you can make the best decision for your dental health.
What is a Filling?
When a deep cavity is to blame for tooth damage, a dentist in Novato may drill out the decayed portion. Then, they can place a filling over the tooth to bring back its natural color and functionality. This process will restore functionality and protect against further decay. Filling materials include resin, gold, amalgam, porcelain, and composite resin.
What is a Crown?
Crowns are a common form of dental restoration. A crown covers all or part of a tooth, often after root canal treatment to repair damage from decay or trauma which a filling cannot restore. Restoring a tooth with a crown prevents you from replacing the entire tooth with an implant or bridge.
These caps are usually constructed of porcelain, metal, or a combination of both materials. Crowns are also used to cover teeth that are discolored or disfigured, making them look better.
How Do Dentists Choose Between the Two Procedures, Crowns vs Fillings?
The decision of a crown vs. a filling depends on the damage to your tooth. A cosmetic dentist in Novato may recommend a crown if the tooth has already been impaired by decay or is structurally unsound. If a tooth has been cracked, they may suggest removing and replacing the entire tooth with an implant.
Several factors go into the decision to restore a tooth with a filling or crown. At Marin Modern Dentistry, our experienced dentists in Novato, CA, can make the best recommendation based on their examination of your teeth.
What to Expect After a Dental Filling
Once your dentist has completed the tooth restoration process, you can expect to be pain-free once the minor swelling recedes. However, it is possible that you may experience some discomfort or sensitivity for up to three weeks if the filling was near the root. Your dentist may recommend Tylenol or ibuprofen to help with any pain you feel after receiving a filling.
What to Expect After a Dental Crown
Like a filling, you may experience some mild discomfort after the dentist places your dental crown. Your cosmetic dentist may also recommend over-the-counter pain relievers or ibuprofen for any discomfort you feel.
You should expect your dentist to recommend a crown if they believe it will restore your tooth to its optimal functionality. For some patients, a filling is sufficient, while for others, the restoration will be more extensive and require a crown. Our dentists in Novato can determine what solution will work best for you and your teeth.
If you’re experiencing tooth pain in Novato, CA, our dentists can help. To schedule your dental appointment with Marin Modern Dentistry, give us a call.