Crowns vs Fillings – Which One is the Better Option?
It happens to just about everyone eventually; you have a cavity in one of your teeth and need to get it filled. However, you have heard that getting a crown is the better choice most of the time because they last longer and look better, but you have also heard from your friends that crowns cost more. Is it worth it? Well, our dentist at Dentistry for You can answer those questions for you, but here are a few of the most common questions people ask about fillings versus crowns:
Crowns vs Fillings FAQs
Q: What is the difference between fillings and crowns?
A: The filling does not protect the tooth; it just refills the space where the cavity was. A filling is just that: a substance (i.e. composite, silver material) to fill the empty hole left by removing the part of the tooth that is decayed. A crown is a protective cap, which is custom made out of a certain material such as porcelain, zirconia, or gold, to fit over your tooth. The crown will actually stop that tooth from being damaged any more. A filling is put inside the tooth, while the crown is on top of the tooth, giving it a protecting shell. We can explain more and show you samples of each so you can see the differences.
Q: Which lasts longer? Fillings or Crowns?
A: Fillings can be broken or damaged much easier than crowns so a crown will last longer. Especially if you have a big cavity to fill, because fillings actually get their strength from your teeth and the bigger it is the weaker it is. In addition, the filling is inside the tooth so when you chew it puts pressure on the filling, which eventually will cause a wedge that causes the tooth to break. The crown is glued to the natural tooth underneath so that it actually protects the tooth from any more damage and adds strength to the tooth instead of taking strength from it as fillings do.
Q: Will it look natural?
A: That depends on the material you choose to use for the crown. Porcelain crowns can be tinted to match your other teeth and look as natural as your other teeth. Of course, if you choose gold or silver, the tooth will not look natural. Fillings are usually not used in a situation where it should look natural, such as the front teeth; because they show through the tooth no matter what material it is made of. Dentistry for You would rather use fillings on back teeth if the cavity is small, but otherwise a crown is a better choice.
Q: How does a crown feel?
A: The crown feels just like a real tooth if you get porcelain. It has a natural look and feel so it seems like you have your natural tooth back. Gold is stronger and will last longer, but it will not feel as natural as a porcelain crown.
At Dentistry for You in Thornhill, we can answer all of your questions about crowns and fillings as well as any other dental questions you may have. Just give us a call at 905.731.1871 and make an appointment today.