A cavity does not automatically mean you need a filling, and a damaged tooth does not always require a crown. The best repair depends on how much healthy tooth remains and how much support it needs. Our Calgary, AB, team at McCall Dental provides both dental fillings and dental crowns. General dentist Dr. Ludmilla Ciucci, DDS, has postgraduate education in endodontics and continues her education in prosthodontics, while Dr. Rafael Tomio, DMD, brings additional training in periodontics and implant dentistry.
When Is a Filling Often Enough?
Fillings are commonly used for smaller areas of decay or damage when there is enough sound tooth structure to hold the repair securely. We remove the affected portion and rebuild the area with filling material so the tooth can function normally again.
Our restorative dentistry services include fillings for cavities and certain chips or fractures. The location of the problem matters, too. A small area on one tooth may be straightforward to repair, while similar damage in a heavily stressed chewing area may need a different approach.
When Might a Crown Be Recommended?
A crown covers the visible portion of a tooth and can reinforce it when more structure has been lost. We may discuss one for a tooth that is significantly weakened, cracked, worn, or already contains a large restoration.
A crown is also sometimes used after root canal therapy because the treated tooth may need added protection, depending on its location and condition. Still, having a root canal does not automatically mean a crown is necessary in every case.
How Do We Choose Between the Two?
Neither option is inherently better. The right choice depends on how much of the tooth needs to be rebuilt or protected. We consider the extent of decay or fracture, the amount of strong tooth structure left, previous dental work, your bite, and where the tooth sits in your mouth.
An examination is the starting point. Digital radiography can help us assess areas that are not visible during a visual exam, while intraoral cameras provide a closer view of the tooth and can help you understand what we are seeing. These are among the dental technologies used in our Calgary office.
If a filling can restore the tooth properly, covering more of it may not be necessary. When the tooth needs broader support, a crown may be recommended instead. For help deciding how to repair a damaged or decayed tooth, contact us at McCall Dental in Calgary, AB, or call 587-747-0888 to request an appointment.