If you are experiencing toothache or pain, then it is important that you make an appointment to see your dentist. This is because you might have a problem that can be rectified by the installation of a dental crown. Dental crowns are used to treat a number of dental issues, including severely damaged teeth. But it can be difficult to know whether you will need a dental crown or a tooth filling. Where this will be determined by your dentist, it can be beneficial for a patient to know what to expect. So do you need a dental crown?
What is the difference between a filling & a dental crown?
Dental crowns and fillings are often considered to be the same thing, but this simply is not the case. A filling and a dental crown each have different roles to play when it comes to tooth restoration, reparation, stabilisation and protection. With this in mind, it is important that we understand what each one is and how it can benefit the tooth when an issue arises.
What is a tooth filling?
A filling is used to treat minor tooth problems, like a small amount of decay or slight damage. It fills the tooth and sets to mimic the strength of a regular, natural tooth. Dental impressions are not needed like they would be for other dental treatments, like crowns.
What is a dental crown?
This is used to treat severe tooth problems, such as a large, irreparable amount of decay or major damage. It covers and encases the tooth to reinforce it and provide it with the strength it needs for the patient to eat, drink, talk and smile comfortably. A dental impression will be needed as it is designed to mimic the appearance of a real tooth.
What is the procedure for having a dental crown fitted?
If a dental crown is needed, then there is a set procedure carried out by a qualified dentist, such as the endodontic experts at Quorn Dental Practice and Implant Clinic. They are proud to restore a damaged, misshapen, discoloured or broken tooth, ensuring the patient can go about their daily activities with complete confidence, without having to worry about the appearance of their tooth or teeth (if more than one crown is required).
The dental crown treatment provided by Quorn Dental Practice and Implant Clinic has been designed to ensure maximum comfortability for the patient throughout the procedure. There are a number of steps involved when it comes to preparing and encasing the tooth with a dental crown.
It might take more than one visit to have a dental crown fitted. During the first appointment, impressions of the tooth are made and a temporary crown is added. While the permanent crown is being made, the temporary crown will protect the tooth, ensuring the root does not become infected. The second visit will involve the installation of the permanent dental crown which will include the removal of the temporary one.
State-of-the-art technology, which Quorn Dental Practice and Implant Clinic has access to, might allow for a patient to undergo dental crown treatment within one visit as opposed to two, but make sure you discuss this possibility with your dentist because it might depend on the severity of your problem.
9 reasons why you might need a dental crown
There are several common reasons why someone might need to have a dental crown fitted over a tooth filling. As already touched upon, crowns are far more desirable in comparison to other solutions because they are incredibly robust and have a natural, realistic aesthetic. But why would one need to have a dental crown fitted? Here are some popular reasons:
- A weak tooth needs to be covered and protected
- A cracked tooth may need to have sections of it strengthened and stabilised
- A broken tooth needs to be completely restored
- A severely worn-down tooth needs to be repaired
- A large filling with little tooth structure will need to be covered and strengthened
- A tooth that has undergone root canal treatment will need to be reinforced
- A dental bridge needs to be anchored
- A severely discoloured or misshapen tooth needs to be restored
- A dental implant needs to be encased
Quorn Dental Practice and Implant Clinic is proud to provide customers throughout Loughborough and the surrounding areas with first-class, meticulous dental care. From specialist treatments, such as root canals, periodontal procedures and orthodontics, to common dental treatments, such as regular check-ups, cosmetic dentistry, dental crowns, veneers and more, you can rest assured that you’ll be in good hands with their highly-qualified, professional dentists. For more information about the dental treatments available at Quorn Dental Practice and Implant Clinic, including family dentistry, emergency appointments or referrals, get in touch with a member of our friendly, experienced team today – they are always happy to hear from you.
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