Dental Admissions Test (DAT) Practice Test

What type of dental restoration is used for extensive tooth decay?

1. Bonding

2. Crown

3. Veneer

4. Filling

The correct answer is: Crown

A crown is a type of dental restoration specifically designed to cover or "cap" a tooth that has suffered extensive decay, trauma, or a fracture. When a tooth has significant damage that compromises its structure and function, a crown provides strength and protection, restoring the tooth's shape and appearance while allowing it to withstand the forces of chewing. Unlike fillings that are used for smaller cavities, crowns are appropriate for more extensive decay where there's not enough natural tooth remaining to support a filling. They encircle the tooth, which is especially important in cases of severe decay that may have weakened the tooth's structure, ensuring that it remains stable and functional. Bonding and veneers are primarily cosmetic treatments used for minor imperfections and are not suitable for addressing the structural damage caused by extensive decay. A filling is appropriate for small cavities but does not provide the same level of protection and structural support as a crown. Therefore, for extensive tooth decay, a crown is the most suitable choice to restore the tooth effectively.