That’s a fair question. Sometimes a tooth can be repaired with a filling, but if your dentist recommends a crown, a simple patch may not be the best long-term option.
Think of a patch-up as a spare tire: useful in the short term, but not designed for the highway. A crown is a protective cap that covers the tooth and helps restore its strength and structure.
A crown may be recommended when much of the tooth has been replaced with filling material, the tooth is cracked, or it has been significantly hollowed out for a root canal, leaving it more brittle. Crowns can also be used to substantially change a tooth’s shape, colour or appearance, such as during a smile makeover.
Best advice: pick a dentist you believe has your best interest in mind and give their recommendation for a crown a strong consideration.
Stay sexy, stay fresh Nanaimo!
This article is general information, not a diagnosis. Every mouth is different, so the best answer for you comes from an exam and a conversation with your dental team.
