When it comes to restoring a damaged tooth, dentists commonly recommend either a filling or a crown. Both treatments are designed to repair decay or damage, restore function, and protect the tooth, but they serve very different purposes depending on the severity of the issue. Knowing the difference between the two, and when each is appropriate, can help you feel more confident in your dental care decisions. Here’s a breakdown of when you should get a dental crown versus a filling and why choosing the right option matters for your long-term oral health.
When a Filling is the Right Choice
A filling is typically used when the damage to your tooth is minor to moderate, such as with small to mid-sized cavities or minor chips. Fillings are designed to “fill in” the areas where tooth structure has been lost due to decay or trauma. They are often made of composite resin, amalgam, or porcelain.
A filling may be right for you if:
- The cavity is small or moderate in size.
- The tooth structure is mostly intact.
- There’s minimal risk of the tooth breaking.
- You’re addressing a minor cosmetic concern, like a small chip.
Fillings are less invasive than crowns, require less removal of the natural tooth, and are generally completed in a single visit. They’re ideal for situations where the tooth’s structural integrity is still strong.
When You Need a Dental Crown
A dental crown is used when a tooth is significantly weakened or damaged and a filling would not provide enough strength or protection. A crown is a custom-made cap that covers the entire visible portion of the tooth, restoring its shape, size, and function. Crowns can be made from porcelain, metal, resin, or a combination of materials.
A crown may be necessary if:
- A large portion of the tooth is decayed or missing.
- The tooth has had a root canal and needs protection.
- The tooth is cracked or at risk of breaking.
- You have a very large or worn-out filling that compromises the tooth’s structure.
- You want to restore a misshapen or severely discolored tooth for cosmetic reasons.
Crowns offer superior strength and durability compared to fillings and are designed to last many years with proper care. They also help protect the remaining tooth structure from further damage or decay.
Why It Matters
Choosing between a crown and a filling isn’t just about aesthetics or cost – it’s about long-term function and health. Using a filling when a crown is truly needed can lead to a fractured tooth, failed filling, or the need for more extensive treatment like a root canal or even extraction down the road.
Your dentist will evaluate the extent of the damage, the location of the tooth, and how much healthy structure remains before recommending the best option.
Both dental crowns and fillings play essential roles in restorative dentistry. The key is understanding when each is appropriate. Minor issues can usually be treated with a filling, while more significant damage calls for the added strength and protection of a crown.
About the Practice
Are you ready to restore your smile and functionality with a dental crown? Our talented team here at Devonshire Dental of Boston can provide you with a custom-fitted appliance! We’re a husband-and-wife-led group of professionals who strive to give you good, friendly service right in the heart of downtown Boston. To schedule your appointment, simply visit our website or give us a call at (617) 350-7474.