When patients visit Russo Dental in Brookfield, WI, for restorative work, one of the first decisions involves whether a tooth should receive a filling or a dental crown. Understanding the differences between these options and knowing when to choose a dental crown over a filling can help patients feel confident in their treatment plan.
What’s the difference: fillings and dental crowns
A filling is a common restorative treatment used when a tooth has a cavity or a small area of decay. The dentist removes the decayed portion and fills the space with a material, such as composite resin, porcelain, or metal alloy, restoring the tooth’s shape and function.
A dental crown, sometimes called a “cap,” covers the entire visible part of the tooth down to the gum line. At Russo Dental, dental crowns in Brookfield, WI, are described as “caps that restore damaged teeth by covering them.”The process involves shaping the tooth, taking an impression or scan, and then fitting the custom-made crown, usually over two visits.
When a filling is sufficient
A filling tends to work best when the tooth damage is limited in size and extent. If the decay or fracture affects only a portion of the tooth and the remaining structure is healthy and strong, then a filling often restores the tooth adequately. At Russo Dental, they explain that smaller repairs, such as fillings or inlays/onlays, fall under their restorative dentistry services. Because a filling preserves more of the natural tooth, it is generally less invasive and less expensive than a crown.
When to consider a dental crown
However, there are situations where a crown is the better choice. At Russo Dental of Brookfield, the indications for dental crowns in Brookfield, WI, include cases where a tooth has a large cavity, a broken tooth, or a broken filling.A crown may also be necessary after root canal therapy, or when the tooth’s structure is weak and needs protection.
Crowns provide added strength, shape, and function, and can be color-matched for a natural appearance.If the remaining tooth walls are minimal, a filling might not hold, and a crown gives the support necessary to prevent further damage.
Key questions to ask at Russo Dental
When you consult with Russo Dental, your Brookfield dentist will help you determine which option fits your situation. Ask:
- How many healthy teeth remain?
- Is the tooth’s structure stable, or at risk of fracturing?
- Will a filling last, or would a crown give better longevity and function?
- What materials are available for the crown, and how do they affect cost and appearance? (For example: ceramic, porcelain-fused-to-metal, zirconia)
- What does the process look like for either treatment? Russo Dental ensures patients feel comfortable and informed about their options.
Making the right decision for your smile
Choosing between a filling and a crown ultimately depends on the condition of the tooth and your long-term dental goals. If the damage is minor and the tooth is strong, a filling is a sensible option. However, if the tooth is weakened, has a large restoration, or requires enhanced protection, then a dental crown in Brookfield, WI, is often the wiser investment. At Russo Dental, patients receive expert recommendations tailored to their individual dental needs.
Ready to protect your smile?
If you’re in Brookfield and facing a decision between a filling or a crown, let Russo Dental guide you. Their team is committed to helping you feel informed and comfortable throughout the entire process. Don’t wait while damage worsens—reach out today and schedule your consultation to explore dental crowns in Brookfield, WI, and find the solution that will keep your smile strong for years to come.
