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Dentistry/To fill or crown?
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Question
Hello. A have a molar that has a huge filling that just broke. My dentist has given me choice between replacing the filling or placing a crown. If I choose a new filling, will it increase my odds of needing a root canal in the future since more enamel will be missing?
Mike,
The real question is, if you choose a new filling, will it increase your odds of keeping the tooth in the future. If a root canal becomes necessary, so be it, as long as the tooth can be saved. A large filling increases the risk of tooth breakage that may jeopardize the tooth's longevity. If your dentist thinks a crown will help save the tooth, go for it.
Best wishes,
Steve
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- Lawrence Spindel DDS, www.lspindeldds.com
- Dr Craig Peck ( B.Med.Sc., B.Ch.D., M.Sc., Clin. Botox, Cosmet. Derm.)
- Benjamin Schwartz, DDS FAGD
- Susan Tannenbam
- Joseph Zelig, DDS, D.ABP www.smileinthecity.com
- Dr.Mike Glasmeier
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- Dr. Madhvendra T. Singh
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- Lawrence Gold
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Steven C. Scherr, D.D.S.
Expertise
Comprehensive Dentistry, TMJ Dysfunction Therapy, and Cosmetic Dentistry. Nineteen years of experience including hospital residency (Sinai Hospital of Baltimore), and training at the Pankey Institute for Advanced Dental Education. Currently in private rehabilitative practice.
Experience
I was the Summa Cum Laude graduate of the University of Maryland Dental School in 1981. I served as a General Practice Resident at Sinai Hospital of Baltimore in 1981-82, and have been in private dental practice since that time. My practice is now located in Owings Mills, MD, a suburb of Baltimore. My studies at The L.D. Pankey Institute for Advanced Dental Education in Florida has enriched my practice and my patients. It was there that I learned the true meaning of excellence.
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