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Dental Crown vs. a Filling: Which is Right for You?

June 18, 2025

Filed under: Uncategorized — carydental @ 8:00 am
Tooth with a crown

When it comes to restoring a damaged tooth, dental crowns and fillings are two of the most common solutions your dentist may recommend. Both can restore the function and appearance of your tooth, but they serve different purposes depending on the extent of the damage.

Understanding the differences between these treatments can help you feel more confident about your dental care decisions.

What Is a Dental Filling?

A dental filling is used to repair a tooth that has a small to moderate cavity or minor damage. Your dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth and fill the area with a durable material such as composite resin, amalgam, or another tooth-colored option.

Fillings are a conservative treatment, preserving most of your natural tooth structure while restoring strength and function. They are typically ideal when the damage to the tooth is minimal and there is enough healthy enamel left to support the filling.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped “cap” that covers the entire visible portion of your tooth. Crowns are used when a tooth is severely weakened, cracked, or has a large cavity that a filling alone cannot restore.

Crowns provide full coverage, protecting the tooth underneath while restoring its shape, strength, and appearance. They are often recommended after root canal therapy or when a tooth has been significantly damaged from decay or trauma.

When Should You Get a Filling vs. a Crown?

The choice between a filling and a crown depends on several factors, including:

  • Size of the cavity or damage: Small cavities can usually be treated with a filling, while larger areas of decay may require a crown.
  • Tooth strength: If the tooth is weakened or has large cracks, a crown may be necessary to protect it from further damage.
  • Location of the tooth: Teeth that handle heavy chewing forces, like molars, may benefit from the added protection of a crown if the damage is extensive.
  • Previous dental work: Teeth with large, existing fillings may require a crown if additional decay occurs.

Your dentist will evaluate the condition of your tooth and determine which option will best preserve your dental health and function while maintaining your smile’s appearance.

Why Seeing a Dentist Matters

It may be tempting to delay treatment, but addressing dental decay or damage promptly can prevent further complications. A small cavity can grow quickly, potentially requiring a crown or even extraction if left untreated.

Seeing your dentist regularly allows them to monitor your teeth for signs of decay or damage and recommend the appropriate treatment before a minor issue becomes a major one.

Both fillings and crowns play essential roles in restoring your smile, and your dentist will help you determine which treatment will best protect your tooth while preserving your oral health.

About the Practice

At Cary Dental Rejuvenation, Dr. Bikram Singh and his caring team offer personalized restorative dental care to help you maintain a strong, beautiful smile. Whether you need a dental filling, a crown, or other treatment, Cary Dental Rejuvenation uses advanced techniques and a gentle approach to restore your teeth while keeping your comfort a priority.

Call us at (919) 460-5454 or request an appointment online.