Many dentists offer a variety of services so that if one treatment option doesn’t work for you, you might still benefit from another. For example, decayed or damaged enamel is often fixed with tooth-colored fillings, though some patients require a dental crown instead.
It’s natural to have questions about these services as you decide which option is right for you. Continue reading to learn more about what’s involved in each and how your dentist decides which is best, so you know what to expect!
What Are Dental Fillings?
Historically, dentists provided fillings made from amalgam mixtures of metal with liquid mercury as a binding agent, but these could sometimes be problematic. For instance, metal can cause sensitivity or expand and contract with changes in temperature, which can eventually erode enamel.
Today, most providers use tooth-colored composite resin instead. This material is biocompatible and can be customized to match your natural teeth for seamless results that are less likely to be noticed. This is the standard way to address cavities and can last 5 to 15+ years with proper care, but it requires enough healthy enamel for the resin to bond to and may not be ideal for those with more severely damaged teeth.
What Are Dental Crowns?
Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps that are cemented over treated, damaged, or decayed teeth to restore their function and appearance. They are usually crafted from resilient ceramic, such as porcelain, that can be made to resemble the size, shape, and tone of the teeth you were born with.
These durable covers are strong enough to withstand the daily pressure of biting and chewing so that you can continue to use your injured tooth to eat, speak, and smile confidently. With routine maintenance, they often last 10 to 15+ years, though longevity can vary based on your unique circumstances.
Which Treatment is Right for Me?
Both options restore your tooth so that you can continue using it normally, but the right treatment for you depends on your situation. For instance, if you have more minor tooth decay, a filling might be all that’s needed to repair the damage. Meanwhile, more severe issues are likely to require a dental crown because there may not be enough healthy enamel to support a filling.
But only your dentist can make a professional recommendation and devise a customized treatment plan based on their findings during your initial examination. Either way, they have the expertise and state-of-the-art equipment to provide comfortable, accurate services to help protect and preserve your smile.
About the Practice
Patients at West Broward Dental Associates benefit from two dedicated dentists who are eager to help them build and maintain beautiful, healthy teeth and gums. Drs. Armand and Mihran Asinmaz collaborate to offer a comprehensive menu of services, including tooth-colored repairs, to meet all their patients’ unique needs conveniently under one roof. Their compassionate approach is paired with advanced technology to deliver beautiful, comfortable results meant to last. You can request an appointment on the website or call (954) 975-7900.