Dental Crown vs Filling: What Are the Differences?

Did you know that more than 26% of adults in the United States have problems with untreated tooth decay? Tooth decay leads to infections and eventually permanent tooth loss.

If you need options to protect your teeth from further decay, it’s important to understand the differences between a dental crown vs. filling and how to know which one you might need.

Keep reading this dental filling vs. dental crown guide to learn everything you need to know!

What Is a Dental Crown?

Dental crowns are like tooth-shaped caps that go over the top of damaged teeth. Sometimes the damage to your tooth is too severe for a filling, so your dentist will use a dental crown to protect and restore your tooth’s shape. Crowns are cemented into place and completely cover the top part of your tooth.

Crowns are made from different materials like porcelain, gold, nickel, ceramic, or resin. Your dentist will talk to you about the type of material that’s best for your situation. Many people prefer porcelain crowns to match their natural tooth color, but others prefer gold crowns due to their long-term durability.

When Is It Best to Get a Dental Crown?

Dental crowns can save you from permanent tooth loss, and there are certain situations where crowns are a better option than fillings, such as:

• Restoring broken or worn-down teeth
• Holding dental bridges in place
• Covering dental implants
• Fixing discolored or misshapen teeth
• Covering a tooth after a root canal

What Is a Dental Filling?

A dental filling is one of the most common treatments for tooth decay. Fillings actually fill the areas of decay that cause cavities and restore the natural function and shape of your tooth. They also prevent further decay from occurring.

There are different types of filling materials your dentist will use, depending on the location of your cavities, the cost, and any allergies you might have.

The most common materials for filings are gold, silver, composite resins, and porcelain fillings. Many people choose to go with silver fillings because they are resistant to wear and tear and are usually inexpensive.

How Do You Know if You Need a Filling?

Your dentist will decide if your cavity needs a filling vs. a crown by examining the surface of your tooth for abnormalities. They’ll also do an x-ray to determine the extent of the decay and damage to your tooth.

You can check out this complete guide to dental fillings to learn more about the process of getting a dental filling.

Talk to Your Dentist About a Dental Crown vs. Filling

Whether you need a dental crown vs. filling, they’re both great options to restore your dental health to where it needs to be.

Also, do your research to see all the different types of crowns and fillings available. That way, you can talk to your dentist about the options you’re considering.

If you enjoyed this dental crown vs. dental filling guide, check out our blog for more health tips that will improve your life!