Dental Fillings and Crowns

Dental fillings and crowns restore damaged teeth, improve function, protect structure, and enhance oral health.
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Dental treatments today are more advanced, comfortable, and long-lasting than ever. Among them, Dental Fillings and Crowns are two of the most common restorative solutions used to strengthen damaged teeth, eliminate pain, and restore your natural smile. Whether your tooth has decay, a fracture, or weakened enamel, these treatments protect your tooth and prevent future dental complications.

At Dr. Hari Dental Centre, we use strong, tooth-colored materials and modern techniques to ensure that Dental Fillings and Crowns look natural, feel comfortable, and stay durable for many years. This guide will help you understand what they are, how to care for them, and when to seek professional help.

What are Dental Fillings and Crowns?

Dental Fillings and Crowns are restorative dental treatments that repair a tooth affected by decay, cracks, or structural weakness.

1. Dental Fillings

A filling is used when tooth decay is small or moderate. After removing the decay, the dentist fills the cavity with a strong material such as composite resin (tooth-colored), which restores the shape and function of the tooth.

Fillings are recommended when:

  • There is early-stage or moderate tooth decay
  • Minor fractures or chips occur
  • A tooth needs reinforcement after cleaning out old decay

Fillings are a minimally invasive way to stop decay from spreading.

2. Dental Crowns

A crown is a protective cap placed over a tooth when the damage is extensive. It fully covers the tooth above the gumline.

Crowns are recommended when:

  • The tooth is severely decayed
  • A fracture has weakened the tooth
  • After a root canal
  • The tooth has large, old fillings
  • The patient wants to improve aesthetics

Crowns can be made from ceramic, zirconia, metal, or porcelain-fused materials depending on strength and aesthetic needs. Together, Dental Fillings and Crowns ensure your teeth remain strong, functional, and healthy for years.

Aftercare for Dental Fillings and Crowns

Proper aftercare is essential to help your restoration settle well and last long. At our clinic, we guide all patients on Dental Fillings Aftercare and Dental Crowns Aftercare to prevent discomfort, sensitivity or damage.

Immediate Aftercare for Fillings

  • Avoid chewing on the treated side for at least 2–3 hours.
  • Do not consume extremely hot or cold foods immediately.
  • If you receive anesthesia, avoid biting your cheek or tongue.
  • You may feel mild sensitivity for a few days this is normal.

Our Dental Fillings Aftercare instructions also include avoiding sticky or hard foods during the first 24 hours.

Aftercare for Crowns

Crowns take a little more time to adjust, so Dental Crowns Aftercare includes:

  • Avoid hard, crunchy, or sticky foods for the first few days.
  • Practice gentle brushing near the crown margins.
  • If you have a temporary crown, avoid chewing gum or biting hard foods.
  • Report any looseness or discomfort immediately.

With the right approach, Dental Fillings and Crowns can settle comfortably and function like natural teeth.

Tips for Eating after Getting Dental Fillings or Crowns

Eating habits play a major role in the longevity of your treatment. Here are practical tips recommended by our dentists:

Foods You Can Eat Safely

  • Soft rice
  • Curd or yogurt
  • Smoothies
  • Soups (not too hot)
  • Cooked vegetables
  • Eggs
  • Well-cooked pasta

These options are gentle and help avoid pressure on the treated tooth.

Foods to Avoid Temporarily

  • Nuts
  • Hard candies
  • Ice cubes
  • Sticky foods like toffee or gum
  • Very hot or very cold beverages
  • Crusty bread or tough meats

These can crack a crown or dislodge a fresh filling.

Eating Tips

  • Chew on the opposite side for the first few days.
  • Take small bites and chew slowly.
  • If sensitivity occurs, avoid extremes of temperature.

Good eating habits support Long-Term Care for Fillings and Crowns, helping them last many years.

How to Manage Tooth Sensitivity

Sensitivity is normal after receiving Dental Fillings and Crowns, especially if the decay was deep or the tooth was inflamed. Here’s how to manage it effectively:

  • Use desensitizing toothpaste: Brands containing potassium nitrate can reduce sensitivity within days.
  • Avoid temperature extremes: Cold beverages, ice water, and hot coffee may worsen sensitivity temporarily.
  • Brush gently: Harsh brushing exposes tooth surfaces and can worsen sensitivity.
  • Avoid acidic foods: Citrus fruits, sodas, and vinegar-based items can irritate the tooth.
  • Use warm saltwater rinses: This can soothe gum tissues and ease sensitivity.

If sensitivity persists beyond two weeks, you should contact your dentist to ensure that your Dental Fillings and Crowns have settled correctly.

When to Call Your Dentist

Knowing when to seek help can prevent bigger issues later. Call Dr. Hari Dental Centre immediately if you experience:

  • Persistent pain during chewing: This may indicate that the filling or crown needs adjustment.
  • Sensitivity lasting more than 14 days: Although normal initially, long-lasting sensitivity requires evaluation.
  • Cracked or broken crown: Avoid chewing until the dentist checks the crown.
  • Loose crown or filling: A loose restoration can allow bacteria to enter and cause infection.
  • Swelling or gum infection: This may indicate deep decay or irritation under the crown.
  • Discomfort in bite alignment: Even a minor height difference can affect chewing and jaw comfort.

Our clinic prioritizes preventive approaches and Long-Term Care for Fillings and Crowns, ensuring they remain strong, comfortable, and functional.

Why Choose Dr. Hari Dental Centre for Dental Fillings and Crowns?

At Dr. Hari Dental Centre, we combine expertise, precision, and advanced technology to ensure the highest quality restorative treatments. Our clinic uses modern diagnostic tools that help detect dental decay at early stages, allowing us to preserve as much natural tooth structure as possible. We provide durable, tooth-colored fillings and aesthetically designed crowns that blend seamlessly with your natural smile, ensuring both strength and beauty.

Our team is committed to delivering gentle, pain-free care for patients of all ages, creating a calm and comfortable experience during every visit. Each patient receives a personalized treatment plan tailored to their bite, tooth condition, and overall oral health needs. We also prioritize preventive dentistry by educating patients on Dental Fillings Aftercare, Dental Crowns Aftercare, and Long-Term Care for Fillings and Crowns to help maintain long-lasting results.

Conveniently located in Medavakkam, our clinic is easily accessible for families in the surrounding areas and offers a welcoming, child-friendly environment designed to make every visit stress-free and pleasant.

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Conclusion

Dental Fillings and Crowns are essential treatments that restore damaged teeth, stop decay, and prevent future dental issues. With proper aftercare, smart eating habits, and regular dental check-ups, these restorations can last for many years.

If you are experiencing pain, sensitivity, or suspect decay, visit Dr. Hari Dental Centre for expert evaluation and care. Our experienced dentists ensure comfortable, durable, and natural-looking results for every patient. Your smile deserves the best let us help you protect it.

Frequently Asked Questions

A filling is better for small cavities or minor tooth damage, as it preserves more natural tooth structure. A crown is recommended when damage is extensive, providing full coverage, strength, and long-term protection. The choice depends on decay severity, tooth strength, and your dentist’s recommendation.

Dental fillings usually last 5 to 10 years, depending on the material, oral hygiene, and chewing habits. Crowns are more durable and can last 10 to 15 years or longer with proper care, regular dental checkups, good oral hygiene, and avoiding habits like teeth grinding.

Yes, dental fillings are generally safe during pregnancy, especially after the first trimester. Dentists avoid harmful medications and use pregnancy-safe materials. Treating cavities promptly helps prevent infections that could affect both mother and baby. Always inform your dentist about your pregnancy before starting any dental treatment.