Restorative dental treatments like fillings and crowns are among the most common procedures performed by general dentists. While routine for professionals, they often involve questions and uncertainty for patients. Understanding what these treatments are, how they work, and what to expect can significantly ease any anxiety.

To help demystify the process, here are the top seven questions patients frequently ask about fillings and crowns, particularly when seeking services for dental fillings in Nottingham and the surrounding areas.

What is the fundamental difference between a filling and a crown?

The difference lies in the extent of restoration needed:

• A Filling is used to repair small areas of damage, such as minor decay (a cavity) or small chips. The dentist removes the decayed material and “fills” the remaining hole, essentially restoring a small portion of the tooth.
• A Crown is a cap that completely covers the entire visible surface of a damaged tooth, acting like a protective helmet. It is necessary when the decay or fracture is too extensive for a filling to hold, or after a root canal procedure, to protect the tooth structure.

Are all filling materials the same, and which is best?

No, there are two primary materials used for permanent fillings:

• Composite (White Fillings): These are tooth-coloured resin materials. They are highly aesthetic, blending seamlessly with the natural tooth, making them the most popular choice for visible teeth.
• Amalgam (Silver Fillings): These are traditional, durable metal-based fillings. While strong, they are dark in colour and are often reserved for less visible molars, though composite materials are now widely used across the mouth.

The “best” material depends on the location in the mouth, the size of the cavity, and aesthetic preference, which is discussed during the check-up.

Will the procedure hurt?

Modern dentistry is highly focused on patient comfort, and the procedure for both fillings and crowns is typically painless due to local anaesthesia.

• During the procedure: The area is completely numbed before the dentist begins cleaning or preparing the tooth, so you should only feel pressure, not pain.
• After the procedure: It is common to experience mild sensitivity to hot or cold for a few days to a few weeks, particularly with fillings. This usually resolves naturally. Over-the-counter pain relief is usually sufficient if discomfort persists.

How long do dental crowns last?

Crowns are built for durability and longevity. The lifespan of a crown is generally 5 to 15 years, or often much longer, depending on several factors:

• Material: Materials like porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) or Zirconia can be extremely resilient.
• Oral Hygiene: Consistent, high-quality brushing and flossing are essential for preventing decay beneath the crown margins.
• Habits: Avoiding habits like chewing ice, hard sweets, or using teeth to open packages will prolong the life of the restoration.

Why do I need two appointments for a crown, but only one for a filling?

A standard filling is completed in a single visit because the material is placed and hardened directly onto the tooth.

Crowns, however, require two appointments:

1. Preparation and Impression: The tooth is reshaped, and a precise impression (mould) is taken. A temporary crown is then fitted.
2. Fitting: The impression is sent to a dental laboratory where the custom-made crown is fabricated. At the second appointment, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is cemented into place.

Will my new filling or crown be noticeable?

For patients prioritising aesthetics, modern materials offer excellent solutions:

• Fillings: Composite resins are matched precisely to the colour of your natural tooth, making the repair virtually invisible.
• Crowns: Crowns can be made entirely of tooth-coloured porcelain or ceramic (such as EMAX or Zirconia), offering highly realistic results that blend seamlessly with your smile.

When does a dentist decide a crown is necessary over a filling?

A crown is generally recommended instead of a filling when:

• The cavity is too large: If more than half of the tooth structure has been compromised by decay, a filling may not be stable enough, and the tooth risks fracturing.
• The tooth is fractured: A crown is needed to hold the compromised tooth fragments together.
• Following a Root Canal: A tooth that has undergone root canal treatment often becomes brittle and requires a crown to protect it from breaking under the pressure of chewing.

If you have concerns about existing dental work or suspect you may need a restorative treatment, scheduling a consultation is the first step toward a healthy mouth. For high-quality general dentistry services, including dental fillings in Beeston, Nottingham, contact us to discuss your options.