Taking the best course of action for your dental health is always important. Certain situations may leave you with recommendations from your dental team— and choices to make. For instance, if you have a tooth that is damaged, your dentist may suggest restoring its integrity with a dental crown. Or, of course, there is always an option of pulling the tooth.
While a dentist's goal is usually to save the natural tooth, you, as the patient, are the one who ultimately makes the decision.
Should you get a crown or pull the tooth? Let’s talk about it.
What Exactly is a Dental Crown?
A dental crown is sometimes referred to as a cap because it is custom-designed to fit over a natural tooth. It covers the damaged or weakened tooth, restoring its shape, size, and strength. With a dental crown in place, full functionality is usually restored. And, because it is designed just for you, it will blend beautifully with the rest of your teeth.
Dental crowns are used to protect jeopardized teeth. For example, those that are cracked, chipped, or even broken. They are also used after a root canal, once the pulp and infection have been removed, leaving behind a weak tooth.
What You Need to Know About Pulling Teeth
An extraction may sound like a simple fix, but it is what follows that you need to take into consideration. Once you pull an ailing tooth, leaving the space empty can lead to bigger, more complex dental issues down the road. Here’s why.
Each tooth supports those around it. Therefore, when one is extracted, the others will eventually begin to shift from their original place. The result is can be bone loss, misaligned bites, difficulty chewing, and more.
Choosing to get a tooth extracted requires you to have a plan to fill the space left behind. Some options may include a dental implant, a bridge, or a partial denture. Many times the replacement option is more expensive than the crown would have been.
Dental Crown vs. Tooth Extraction: When To Choose
Dental crowns and tooth extractions both play a significant role in the world of dentistry. And, there is a time and place when each may be the best choice for treatment.
Dental crowns are ideal when the structure of the tooth is still salvageable, such as after a root canal treatment or removal of decay that is too large for a filling, a cracked or fractured tooth, or for cosmetic reasons. On the other hand, extractions are more of a go-to option when the tooth has severe decay or extensive infection, is too broken to salvage, or when advanced gum disease has caused bone loss.
Discussing your options and your concerns with your dental team is always the best way to determine the ideal solution to preserve your oral health.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will a dental crown last forever?
Dental crowns are strong and durable, often lasting about 10 to 15 years— or longer with exceptional care. Good oral hygiene habits and regular dental visits can extend the life of your crown. No dental restoration should be expected to last forever.
Does a tooth extraction hurt?
Local anesthesia is used during the procedure so that you do not feel any pain. However, once that begins to wear off, you will likely experience some temporary discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help.
Boost Your Oral Health at Suwanee Family Dentistry
Whether you need a dental crown, tooth extraction, or something else, the dental experts at Suwanee Family Dentistry offer a comprehensive list of dental services to meet the needs of patients of all ages.
Contact us today at 678-714-2380 to make an appointment. Or, schedule online.