Although brushing and flossing twice daily is essential to preventing common problems, like cavities, gum disease, and minor breaks, there’s no guarantee that you’ll never develop an issue. It’s still possible for bacteria in your mouth to erode your enamel and cause damage and decay.
If you’ve noticed an injured tooth, you should call your dentist immediately so they can schedule an appropriate time to see you. Thankfully, they provide different treatments that can help, like tooth-colored fillings and dental crowns. If you’re unsure which procedure is right for you, continue reading to learn more!
What is a Tooth-Colored Filling?
Historically, restorations like fillings and crowns were made from amalgam metal that could make your teeth look dark and dirty. Thanks to modern advancements in technology and techniques, today, most dentists use color-matched composite resin to rebuild decayed sections of enamel instead.
For this treatment, your provider will apply the color-matched material directly to your tooth in layers to rebuild the structure. Then, they harden it with an ultraviolet curing light so it bonds with your enamel. The result is an unnoticeable repair that can last for 5 to 10+ years if cared for correctly.
What is a Dental Crown?
This is a tooth-shaped cap that’s cemented over injured teeth to restore their appearance and functionality so you can continue to use them normally. They are also used to anchor dental bridges, top dental implants, and shield a tooth that has had a root canal.
Although they can also be made from gold or other metals, today they’re usually made from resilient porcelain that’s customized to be just the right shade, shape, and size for seamless results. Once it’s cemented in place, it can last just as long or longer than fillings.
Which Treatment is Right for Me?
The only way to know for sure which treatment is right for you is to contact your dentist for an appointment. They’ll examine your mouth and may also take X-rays or other images to see beneath the surface of your gums to determine the extent of the damage. Then, they’ll provide a treatment plan based on their findings.
For example, if your teeth have no cracks and are in mostly good condition except for a minor cavity, then your dentist can likely fix it with a filling. However, a dental crown might be recommended if a large portion of the tooth is missing, cracked, or misshapen.
Either way, your dentist can provide a lifelike restoration to repair the injury to your smile without anyone the wiser!
About the Practice
At Bragg Dental, you and your family benefit from two dentists dedicated to helping you build and maintain beautiful, healthy smiles. Dr. Bragg and Dr. McTier share decades of combined experience treating people of all ages, so you and your loved ones receive the same top-quality care. Then, they combine a compassionate approach with state-of-the-art equipment to provide a comprehensive menu of services at one convenient location. They offer multiple restorations to rebuild your grin’s appearance and functionality, including tooth-colored fillings and dental crowns. You can request an appointment on the website or by calling (770) 889-8420.