Do you have a persistent toothache? Have you chipped or otherwise damaged a tooth? If so, then you require a dental restoration to improve the health and appearance of your tooth. We offer two common forms of dental restoration. Do you need a filling or a crown to correct your smile? That depends on a number of different factors.
Dental Filling
A dental filling is typically employed to address a cavity. After removing any decay from the tooth the doctor places a composite resin material. Shaded to blend with the tooth, the material will be cured with a light and then the tooth thoroughly polished. In a single visit patients can enjoy a newly repaired and lifelike tooth. Both children and adults can benefit from a dental filling. Otherwise, the decay will likely spread until the tooth develops a painful infection, one that could require either a root canal or possibly an extraction to address. We can also use the same material in a cosmetic bonding procedure, restoring lost structure when a tooth becomes chipped.
Dental Crowns
Unlike a filling, a crown actually covers the entirety of the visible portion of the tooth. The tooth receiving the restoration will be prepared by having a small amount of structure removed. After taking an impression a restoration will be designed and fabricated at a dental lab. Once complete, the doctor will check the fit and place the crown.
We may place them for a variety of reasons, including:
- Repairing broken or fractured teeth
- Addressing advanced decay or completing a root canal procedure
- Anchoring a dental bridge
- Restoring a dental implant
- Correcting the shape of a tooth
For teeth near the front of the mouth we will use ceramic to create the restoration. Ceramic is stain-resistant and mimics the translucent nature of tooth enamel. For teeth near the back of the mouth, which must endure greater pressures and bite forces, we can use zirconia. These crowns are stronger but also designed to look like natural teeth.
Which Does My Smile Need?
We will first need to assess the severity of the damage or decay to your tooth. For minor cases a dental filling or bonding procedure may be enough. However, more serious issues may benefit from the placement of a dental restoration. We will discuss your options and your preferences before deciding which option works best for you.
ABOUT YOUR WACO, TX, DENTIST:
We look forward to providing families with exceptional care and advanced treatment options. To schedule an appointment with Corbet Locke, DDS, contact our Waco, TX, dental office today by calling 254-776-4888. Our office welcomes patients in and around Waco, TX, including Hewitt, McGregor, Woodway, and the surrounding Central Texas communities.