Tooth decay is an insidious menace that can break your smile down and cause permanent tooth loss as well as a host of other oral health problems. A few common causes of it include infections, injuries, erosion, acid exposure, teeth grinding, and poor oral habits such as nail-biting, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption. While it’s best to prevent cavities and injuries, dental damage can often be repaired with effective restorative treatments like fillings and crowns. Here’s a quick look at how these restorations work and what can make one the better option.
What Is a Dental Filling?
A dental filling is a restorative device used to repair cavities and cracks that compromise a tooth’s strength and set it up for further injuries and infections. To place a filling, a dentist will administer an appropriate anesthetic to ensure the patient’s comfort before removing the damaged structure from the tooth. Then, they will sanitize the treatment area and apply tooth-colored composite resin in layers until the lost enamel is rebuilt. The dentist will harden the restoration with a specialized UV light and trim and polish it to ensure a lifelike appearance.
What Is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is a restorative device designed to rebuild a tooth compromised by severe infection or injuries, and it can also be used for cosmetic purposes in some cases. To place a crown, the dentist will anesthetize the treatment area before removing the decayed enamel and reshaping the tooth so it can wear the crown. Then, they will take detailed measurements of the treated tooth and bite alignment and fit the patient with a temporary crown so they can get used to wearing it.
The patient will come back to the dentist’s office about two weeks later so they can receive their permanent crown. After removing the temporary device, the dentist will fit the permanent crown in place and make any final adjustments. The patient will then be ready to proudly show off their newly restored smile.
Generally, dental fillings are used to address minor damage while crowns are used to rebuild teeth after severe infections and injuries. Your dentist will be able to determine which restoration is right for you.
About the Practice
PeaksView Dental offers the finest oral healthcare in Bedford. Led by Drs. Jay Owen, Rudy Wolf, Philip S. Walerko, David L. Polk, and Justin Childs, the staff ensures that each patient receives courteous service in a warm and welcoming office environment. Areas of expertise include general, restorative, cosmetic, and emergency dentistry. If you are concerned about tooth decay, contact the practice on the web or dial (540) 586-8106.