What's the Difference Between a Filling and a Dental Crown?

Ever found yourself talking with someone about the dentist, nodding along as terms like "filling" and "crown" are thrown around? You may have heard the terms, and have an idea of what they mean, but do you really understand the difference?

Fillings vs. Crown

Both fillings and crowns are dental restoration options that help keep your smile healthy, but they work in very different ways. The right treatment will depend on the underlying issue and the condition of your tooth.

What Is a Filling?

A filling is one of the most common and straightforward dental procedures used to restore a tooth after decay or minor damage. It's often the first line of defense when a cavity has formed. The primary goal of a filling is to remove decay and seal the remaining hole in the tooth to prevent any further damage.

Fillings are typically used for treating cavities caused by decay or fixing minor damage. Essentially, if the structural integrity of your tooth is still mostly intact, a filling is often the way to go.

Benefits of a Filling:

• Quick and relatively simple procedure.
• Preserves much of your natural tooth.
• Less invasive compared to crowns or other dental restorations.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A crown, on the other hand, is a custom-made, tooth-shaped cap that fully covers a damaged or weakened tooth. Think of it as a protective tooth that attaches to your natural tooth to restore look and function.

A crown is typically recommended when a tooth is severely decayed or damaged and can't be restored with a filling or to improve the appearance of a misshapen or discolored tooth.

Benefits of a Crown:

• Provides more protection for a weakened tooth.
• Restores function for chewing and speaking.
• Highly durable, often lasting 10 years or more with proper care.

Key Differences Between Fillings and Crowns

While both fillings and crowns aim to restore a tooth and prevent further damage, their applications are different based on your unique case. Which is best for you will depend on the following.

Extent of Damage

Fillings address smaller, localized damage (like a minor cavity), while crowns are used for more extensive damage or when the tooth is weakened. In cases of minor damage, a filling is preferred since a crown requires the tooth to be filed down to accommodate the crown. A filling preserves the look and functionality of the natural tooth.

Coverage

A filling repairs a portion of the tooth, basically filling a small hole. Conversely, a crown fully protects the entire outer surface by capping the tooth. If there is damage to multiple areas of the tooth, or if the goal is to improve the appearance of the tooth, a crown may be the better option.

Cost and Time

Fillings are a relatively straightforward procedure requiring a single, quick visit. They are also comparatively less expensive. Crowns may require multiple visits as well as a temporary crown until your permanent crown has been fabricated. They can also be a more significant investment.

Is a Filling or a Crown Best for You?

Understanding the difference between fillings and crowns is a great first step toward making informed decisions about your dental health. Whether you're facing a small cavity or more serious damage, both treatments play an important role in keeping your teeth healthy and strong.

If you have a tooth that's been causing you pain, or if you're in need of a check-up, don't hesitate to reach out to our office. Our experienced team is here to walk you through your options and make sure you're comfortable every step of the way.