At Gentle Dental Care, LLC, Dr. Brad Strober, DMD, MAGD, brings advanced training from the University of Pennsylvania School of Dental Medicine and has published research in the Journal of the American Dental Association. Dr. Cynthia Butcofski is an NYU College of Dentistry graduate who completed her residency at JFK Medical Center and has practiced in Edison for more than 15 years.
A careful dental evaluation can determine which dental repair will most effectively preserve the tooth.
When a Filling May Be Enough
A filling is generally used when the damaged area is relatively small and enough healthy tooth structure remains to support normal chewing. The dentist removes decay or weakened material and fills the space with a durable restorative material.
A filling may be appropriate for:
- A small or moderate cavity
- Minor chips that do not weaken the tooth
- An older filling that needs replacement
- Limited damage confined to one section of the tooth
- A tooth that remains structurally stable
Fillings typically involve less tooth preparation than crowns. However, placing a large filling in a severely weakened tooth may not provide adequate protection.
When a Crown May Offer Better Protection
A dental crown covers the visible portion of a tooth, helping hold it together and distribute pressure more evenly. This form of dental repair may be recommended when a damaged tooth has lost too much structure to support a filling.
A crown may be needed when the tooth has:
- A large cavity or failing oversized filling
- A significant crack or fracture
- Extensive wear caused by grinding
- Weakness following root canal treatment
- Damage affecting multiple surfaces
Without sufficient protection, a weakened tooth may crack further and eventually require more extensive treatment or extraction.
How Dentists Evaluate the Damage
The choice between a filling and crown is not based on appearance alone. The dentist may assess the size and location of the damage, check for pain when biting, review dental X-rays, and examine how much healthy enamel remains.
Symptoms such as lingering sensitivity, sharp discomfort during chewing, or a piece of tooth breaking away should be evaluated promptly. Even damage that seems minor can extend below the visible surface.
Protect a Damaged Tooth in Edison, NJ
Timely treatment can reduce discomfort and help prevent a damaged tooth from becoming more difficult to restore. Call Gentle Dental Care, LLC at 732-549-5660 to schedule a consultation in Edison, NJ and learn whether a filling, crown, or another restorative option is most appropriate.
