Do You Need a Dental Crown or a Filling?

When you're told you have a cavity or damage to a tooth, you're likely to ask what the next steps will be to restore your dental and oral health. Sometimes, a simple cavity filling is enough. Other times, your dentist may recommend a crown. The choice between a filling vs. crown will depend on several factors, like the tooth's treatment history, the extent of the damage, and others. At Advanced Smiles in Frisco, TX, Dr. Ernest De Paoli takes the time to walk each patient through their options, helping them understand why one approach may be better than another. If you're caught between a crown or a filling, here's how to think through the decision. 

 

Can a filling fix every cavity? 

Fillings work well for smaller areas of decay or minor chips, especially when the structure of the tooth is still intact. Not only that, but Dr. De Paoli uses specialized tooth-colored fillings for a more natural, discreet look. However, when too much of the tooth has been compromised, a filling may not offer enough protection and could even put the tooth at risk of future fracture or infection. 

Not only does the size of a cavity matter when choosing between fillings or crowns, but the location of a cavity should also be considered. Molars that take on a lot of bite pressure may need the added strength of a crown, even for moderate damage. Generally speaking, you may still be a candidate for a filling if:  

• The decay is shallow and localized 
• The tooth walls are strong and stable 
• You've never had work done on the tooth before 
• There's no visible cracking or weakening 
• Your bite remains unchanged 

 

Can I get a new filling on a tooth that already has a filling? 

Each time a filling is placed or replaced, a little more natural tooth structure may need to be removed. Over time, this can weaken the tooth and reduce its ability to support another filling. If a filling starts to fail or new decay around a filling forms, we may recommend upgrading to a crown to provide full coverage and protect the remaining tooth. If the same tooth keeps giving you trouble, or if an old filling is breaking down, a crown may be the more predictable long-term solution. 

 

Can you fill a cracked tooth? 

Cracks can change everything when it comes to using crowns vs. fillings. Even a small hairline crack on a tooth — especially on back teeth — can put the tooth at risk of breaking under pressure. In those cases, a crown is usually recommended because it covers the entire tooth, holding everything together and preventing further damage. 

 

What are the risks of getting a filling instead of a crown? 

Choosing a filling when a crown is really needed can lead to future problems. The tooth may crack, the filling may loosen, or new decay may form under the restoration. On the other hand, jumping to a crown when a small filling would suffice could mean removing more natural tooth than necessary. For these reasons, an in-person exam, digital imaging, and a conversation with your dentist are essential parts of the process of treating a cavity or another type of tooth damage. At Advanced Smiles, our caring team combines advanced technology with decades of experience to guide patients toward the treatment that is suitable for their unique, individual needs. 

 

Restore the strength, health, and beauty of your smile with restorative and cosmetic dentistry in Frisco, TX 

With so many options in cosmetic and restorative dentistry available today, it's understandable to have questions about which dental treatment is right for you. If you've been told you need a dental restoration but aren't sure whether a crown or filling is the right fit, contact us today to schedule a visit with Dr. Ernest De Paoli at Advanced Smiles in Frisco, TX.