Filling vs Crown: Which Does Your Tooth Need?

Fillings and crowns are two of the most common types of dental surgery.

One is designed to fill small cracks or cavities in a tooth, and the other takes the place of a damaged tooth.

Today, we’re spending some time getting to know the differences between the two main types of dental reconstruction.

Let’s get down to business!

What are tooth fillings? 

The enamel that makes up the outer layer of your teeth is one of the hardest substances in the human body. As hard as steel, this sheath makes it possible to chew and speak clearly. Dentin, the next layer down, is porous and gives teeth their color.

Underneath this layer is a soft, nerve-filled center called dental pulp that is exposed when teeth are damaged. Cavities are often painful signals that your teeth are compromised, and you should see your dentist as soon as possible. 

If they see a cavity, a filling may be in your future!

What use does a tooth filling have?

Once the surface of a tooth is damaged, bacteria continue to erode enamel and dentin. Dentists use fillings to plug the hole to prevent further tooth decay. This allows your tooth to remain in place and function normally.

There are different types of tooth fillings

Different types of filings are available depending on several factors. Sometimes, it comes down to where on the surface it will be. Other times, it could be more related to the cost of the treatment.

Gold filings used to be relatively common and are still in use but at a cost. Because they require several visits before you can have them inserted, they’re less popular than some other options. 

Silver amalgam is one of the most common and is a composite of silver, tin, zinc, copper, and mercury. It’s sturdy, long-lasting, and affordable. Working with the material is also fairly easy, and most dentists have experience with this approach.

Composite fillings are made of plastic and a resin material. Placed into the tooth while soft, it’s usually cured to hardness using a UV light. One of the primary benefits of this material is that it’s easy to match the color of the existing tooth. For patients who need something less conspicuous, it’s a good choice. 

Ceramic material is also a frequently used option, but it’s more expensive and can be brittle. While it's tooth-colored and resists stains, it’s bulkier and can only be used in large cavities.

Glass ionomer fillings are usually only used for young children whose teeth are still forming. They can release fluoride into the tooth to prevent decay as well. This material only lasts for a few years and is prone to cracking.

What determines the type of tooth filling you will need?

In many cases, the most critical factor in determining which type of filling you’ll get is cost. Dental insurance doesn’t always cover more expensive options. So, unless you’re willing to pay out of pocket for less obvious tooth repair, you could get stuck with silver fillings.

Other considerations take into account where in the mouth the filling is. If it’s on the back molars, it must be able to take the higher amounts of pressure associated with chewing. Closer to the front of the mouth, and you may want to go with composite or resin to match the rest of the tooth.

What are dental crowns?

Sometimes, a tooth is too damaged for a filling or is infected and needs a root canal. At this point, a dentist can remove and replace the damaged tissue with a crown. This device takes the tooth's place and can last 15 years or more when maintained properly. 

What are dental crowns made of? 

Again, depending on your budget, several materials are used to make dental crowns. Some are less noticeable, but they’re also more expensive.

Metal crowns are made from gold, palladium, nickel, and chromium. They rarely chip or break, and the dentist doesn’t have to remove as much enamel before attaching them. However, they’re very noticeable, and many people prefer different materials for that reason.

Porcelain-fused-to-metal (PFM) crowns combine the durability of metal with a less noticeable porcelain dental veneer. It’s relatively easy for dentists to match the color of surrounding teeth in the ceramic layer. 

Pressed ceramic crowns have a hardened ceramic core that’s layered with porcelain. At first glance, they have the translucent quality of the surrounding teeth. Over time, the layers can wear down and crack. 

All ceramic crowns use zirconium dioxide to make a durable cap that doesn’t contain metal. They can withstand bite forces and are more gentle on surrounding teeth than other options.

Technological advances make same-day crowns possible in some cases. Dentists use a digital impression of your tooth to create a computer file sent to a milling machine. It uses the information to carve a crown directly out of ceramic.

Finally, all-resin dental bonding is a quick fix and is usually considered temporary. Your dentist will match the resin to your tooth color and shape it. The resin cures quickly using UV light, but the treatment is often considered cosmetic.

What does a dental crown treat?

Dental crowns are used when the underlying tooth is too decayed or damaged to fill simply. An infection in the dental pulp often requires a root canal to clear it up. Dentists remove the damaged enamel and replace it with a crown, keeping the roots and dentin intact.

How long do dental crowns last?

While teeth should last your lifetime, dental crowns usually last between five and fifteen years. Depending on the material and where they are in the mouth, they may last longer or shorter than that. 

The major differences between tooth fillings and dental crowns

Dental fillings are considered the least invasive way to repair damage to your teeth. Usually, they only require one visit and a local anesthetic. Dental crowns require the removal of more tissue and must match your other teeth.

Cost is a major deciding factor in what you choose

Cost is one of the most significant factors when you have a choice. Fillings are much cheaper than crowns. They use less material and require much less preparation in the mouth before installation.

Sometimes, people with cosmetic dental issues choose to have dental veneers implanted instead of crowns. This could result from malnutrition or severe damage to several visible teeth. It’s important to note that this isn’t a treatment for decay but a cosmetic procedure.

Dental impressions are necessary for crowns, not fillings

Before you can make a crown, you’ll have to get dental impressions done. The cracked teeth are molded, then the mold is used to manufacture the implant. When your dentist removes the decayed material, the final look is close to the original tooth. 

Fillings cover smaller cavities that have decayed material drilled out. Once installed, the dentist shapes the amalgam to fit the surrounding surfaces of the tooth. 

Tooth decay severity determines whether you need a filling or crown

For smaller amounts of damage, fillings are usually your best option. They don’t require dentists to remove as much tooth material and are a quick solution. 

Crowns replace the tooth's surface completely and are helpful when there’s a significant amount of decay. If more than three-quarters of the visible tooth is damaged, it may be too far gone for a crown. In these cases, an implant or extraction might be your only option.

Coral Reef Dental will consult with you about your dental needs!

Coral Reef Dental is committed to helping you find the best solution to your dental problems. After a thorough examination, we’ll consult with you about your options. Whether you need fillings, a crown, or a full set of veneers, we’re prepared to help!

Check out our website to schedule dental services, or call us in an emergency!