When Do You Need a Dental Crown Instead of a Filling?

When you have a damaged or decayed tooth, your dentist will typically recommend one of two main restorative solutions: a filling or a dental crown. While both treatments are effective, they serve very different purposes. Knowing when you need a dental crown instead of a filling can help you protect your oral health and avoid future complications.

Fillings vs. Crowns: What’s the Difference?

A dental filling is used to repair smaller areas of decay by removing the damaged portion of the tooth and filling the space with a tooth-colored material. This restores the tooth’s structure and prevents bacteria from worsening the decay.

A dental crown, on the other hand, is a custom-made cap that fully covers the visible portion of the tooth. Crowns are used when a tooth needs more support than a filling can provide. They restore strength, shape, and function while preserving as much of the natural tooth as possible.

When a Filling Is Not Enough

There are several situations where a simple filling won’t be enough to restore a tooth. Your dentist may recommend a crown if:

• The Decay Is Too Large: If a cavity is extensive, placing a large filling can weaken the tooth structure. In these cases, a crown provides stability and prevents the tooth from cracking.

• Your Tooth Has Cracked or Fractured: A cracked tooth is often too compromised for a filling to effectively repair. A crown holds the tooth together and protects it from further damage.

• You’ve Had a Root Canal: After a root canal, the tooth becomes more fragile. A crown is typically placed to protect it and restore normal chewing function.

• There’s Significant Wear or Erosion: Teeth worn down by grinding, acid erosion, or heavy bite pressure may need crowns to rebuild shape and size.

• Old Fillings Have Failed: If an old filling has broken, leaked, or compromised the tooth structure, a crown can offer a more secure and durable restoration.

Why Dental Crowns Are a Long-Term Investment in Your Smile

Crowns are designed to be strong, natural-looking, and long-lasting. Modern dental materials allow crowns to blend seamlessly with your surrounding teeth while providing excellent durability. Choosing dental crowns can help you avoid future pain, infection, or emergency dental visits by reinforcing weak or damaged teeth before the problem worsens.

Restore Your Smile With Expert Care in Frisco, TX

Knowing when you need a dental crown instead of a filling is essential for keeping your teeth healthy and strong. While fillings are great for smaller cavities, crowns are often the better solution for severely damaged, weakened, or restored teeth. Our skilled dentist in Frisco can assess your needs and help you choose the right treatment for long-term protection and comfort.

If you're experiencing tooth pain, have a damaged tooth, or think you may need a crown, Frisco Modern Dentistry is here to help. Schedule your consultation to learn more about dental crowns and get the personalized care your smile deserves. Visit our office in Frisco, Texas, or call (972) 292-9088 today.