Is It Better to Get a Crown or Pull the Tooth?
It is preferable to preserve your teeth rather than remove them. This is because natural teeth function better than artificial ones. Additionally, removing your teeth leads to other problems like bone deterioration.
Teeth crowns are better than extractions because they preserve the root of the teeth. Dental crowns are often done as a last resort when all dental treatments fail or the teeth are severely damaged. However, it is recommended to visit a dental professional for an assessment to decide what kind of treatment is ideal for you.
What is a Crown?
A tooth crown is a dental restoration that covers the entire tooth, restoring it to its original shape and size. These restorations are made of porcelain, metals, porcelain-fused-to-metal, or stainless steel. They are an effective way to protect a damaged tooth from further decay. However, they are not always necessary, and it may be better to pull the tooth sometimes.
When is a Crown Necessary?
A dental crown covers the entire tooth, restoring it to its original shape and size. A dental crown is necessary when the tooth is too damaged to be repaired with a filling. These restorations can also improve the appearance of teeth that are discolored or misshapen. Dental crowns are combined with other dental treatments like bridges, implants, and root canals.
What is a Tooth Extraction?
Tooth extraction is the permanent pulling of a tooth from the socket. The tooth removal procedure may be done for various reasons that include; tooth decay, gum disease, fractured teeth, and overcrowding.
A dentist can perform either surgical or non-surgical tooth removal depending on the tooth’s location and condition.
In some cases, like an infected pulp, a dentist may perform a root canal and use a crown to restore the function of the teeth.
When is a Tooth Extraction Necessary?
The dentist may recommend teeth removal over crowns for several reasons, like a severely decayed tooth. While crowns can repair mild to moderate decay or cavities, the dentist can resolve to remove the teeth to prevent further damage to the jaw and the surrounding teeth.
Additionally, if you have an impacted tooth (stuck in the gums), it may need to be extracted. Finally, if you have crowded teeth, you may need to have one or more teeth extracted to make for the teeth alignment treatment. Your dentist in Waterford will be able to determine if you need to have a tooth extracted and, if so, which tooth needs to be removed.
Why is Tooth Extraction not a Solution?
Both extraction and crowns are used to correct specific dental procedures. However, tooth removal is often not a solution unless when necessary. This is because pulling the teeth leaves gaps in between that are unattractive. Furthermore, the spaces can cause the surrounding teeth to shift and occupy the available spaces, which weakens the teeth.
Are Tooth Crowns Permanent?
Crowns are not permanent, and they will eventually need to be replaced. However, with proper care, they can last for many years.
- Brush and floss your teeth regularly. Be sure to brush gently around the base of the crowns and to use a flosser to remove any plaque buildup.
- Do not bite or chew on hard foods or objects or bite your nails. This can damage the crowns and lead to their eventual failure.
- If you experience any pain or difficulty chewing, contact your dentist immediately.
Is Getting a Crown Painful?
Getting a crown is a relatively simple procedure but can be painful. The pain is usually caused by the numbing medication used during the procedure. However, some people may also experience discomfort from having a foreign object (the crown) placed on their tooth. In most cases, the pain from getting a crown is temporary and can be managed with pain medication.
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Visit The Waterford Dentist for more information about the dental crown in Waterford, MI, tooth extraction, and what you can expect.