The term “cavity” is used to refer to a defect in your tooth that might be from decay or rot that is caused by a breakdown of the tooth structure from bacteria and/or acid, trauma, or excessive wear. It’s not really a scientific term, but it’s adequate to communicate that a repair is needed to preserve the tooth.

Fillings are used to repair these broken, cracked or eroded teeth when there is enough good tooth left to support the filling. Typically, a filling needs to be “sandwiched” between solid remaining tooth structure for it to have reasonable longevity. If the tooth is too brittle or the remaining structure is too thin then a crown or cap is needed.

Crowns typically encircle and also “roof” the entire remaining compromised tooth. Think of a hat (cap) that replaces missing tooth materials and also preserves and seals the tooth structure that is remaining after your dentist removes the soft, fragile, decayed, brittle portions.

Crowns are often done to prevent the nerve of the tooth from becoming infected and needing a root canal (endodontic) treatment. However, most teeth that have had root canal therapy require crowns to prevent fracture and future tooth loss.

Dr. Alan Ross, Keene Family Dental, 67 Mechanic Street, Keene, NH 03431 Phone: 603-357-6767