When your tooth is damaged or has a cavity, your dentist may recommend either a filling or a crown. But how do you if you need a crown or filling? There are key differences between each treatment option and the best choice depends on your unique dental needs.
Below, we share more details about these two restorative treatments and helpful information to help you understand which may be ideal for your smile.
About Tooth Fillings
A filling is used to repair minor cavities or small cracks in a tooth. The dentist removes the decayed portion and fills the area with materials such as composite resin or amalgam. It protects the tooth from further damage and restores its strength. Using a filling to treat a cavity will also address any pain or discomfort that the decay was causing.
It’s best for minor tooth damage, including cavities, small chips, or minimal damage.
Read more: When Do I Need to Replace My Dental Filling?
About Dental Crowns
A crown is a custom-made cap that completely covers a tooth, restoring its strength and function. Crowns are often recommended for severely damaged teeth that cannot be repaired with a filling.
Crowns are an ideal option for large cavities that a filling cannot support. We use them to restore fractured or weakened teeth that need a more robust treatment than a filling. Following a root canal, we often use a crown to protect the tooth.
Key Differences
| Feature | Fillings | Crowns |
| Coverage | Partial (fills a hole in the tooth) | Full (covers the entire tooth) |
| Durability | 5-15 years | 10-20 years |
| Cost | Less expensive | More expensive |
| Treatment Time | One visit | One or two visits |
Visit Summit Family Dental for Restorative Dental Care in Shelby Township
If your tooth has minor damage, a filling may be sufficient. However, if the damage is extensive or weakens the tooth, a crown is the better option.
If you’re experiencing tooth pain or decay, Summit Family Dental is here to help. We’ll help you determine if a tooth crown or tooth fillings in Shelby Township is best for your dental needs. Count on us for personalized restorative dental solutions in a modern clinic. Contact us today to schedule an appointment!
