When your dentist finds a cavity that is really large, you shouldn't be surprised if he or she suggests using a dental crown to fix the problem. Dental crowns are products commonly used for a number of dental problems, and they are often the best solution for the problems your teeth may have. Here are three reasons crowns are often a better choice than fillings.
Dental Crowns Are Strong
If you compare a dental filling and a crown, there is really no comparison when it comes to strength. A dental crown is superior over a filling, especially when a filling must be large due to a lot of decay in the tooth. Each time a dentist must place a filling in a tooth, the tooth will weaken due to the removal of part of the actual tooth. While filling material is considered strong, for its purpose, it is not as strong as a natural tooth. Fillings can crack, break, or fall off, whereas a crown is not likely to do this as quickly.
When a dentist places a crown over a tooth, the crown actually strengthens the tooth. The dentist will leave part of the tooth in place when installing a crown, and this tooth will have roots holding it in place. The crown covers the entire tooth, and this provides a strong layer of protection. Crowns do not typically crack or chip, because they are solid pieces of material typically made of porcelain. If a crown falls off, it can usually be cemented back into place.
Dental Crowns Can Reduce Risks Of Infection
If the cavity you have in this particular tooth is deep into the tooth, it may be very close to reaching the roots of the tooth. When this happens, you will need a root canal procedure. A root canal is used to clean out infected tooth roots. If the dentist fills this cavity, there is a much higher chance that the decay could seep into the roots. With a crown, the chances are less likely.
In addition, if this tooth already has an infection in the roots, you will need to have a root canal. In this situation, the dentist may not even be able to use a filling to fill in the hole. He or she may have to use a dental crown in order to protect and cover the entire tooth.
Crowns Provide An Even Color And Shape
When a tooth has a cavity in it, the dentist could match the filling material to the color of the tooth. This, however, will not be extremely useful if your teeth are discolored. Discolored teeth can make people feel self-conscious and embarrassed, and there are times when professional teeth whitening will not help whiten teeth.
Aesthetic purposes is another reason a crown over a filling is a better option. When a dentist makes a crown, he or she can select any shade of white desired. If this tooth is intrinsically stained, you could whiten the rest of your teeth and select a crown that is bright white. This crown will stay this color for a very long time, primarily because crowns do not stain easily. If you want whiter teeth, choosing a crown would be a better choice.
Your dentist will also be able to correct the shape of the tooth when using a crown, and this is not really an option when filling a tooth. Your dentist can make the crown in a way that looks natural, which is ideal for a tooth that was misshaped or uneven.
Dental crowns are a great solution for many reasons, and they are perfect for saving severely damaged teeth. To learn more about these, contact a cosmetic dentist in your area, such as those at Art of Dentistry Institute.
Share