When you have tooth decay or damage, your dentist will likely recommend either a filling or a dental crown, but which one is right for you? Fillings work well for small cavities, while crowns provide full coverage for more extensive damage. Knowing the difference can help you make the best choice for your smile.
At The Smile Collective, we believe in empowering our patients with knowledge, so you can make informed decisions about your dental care. Read on to find out the key differences between crowns and fillings – and which one might be the best fit for your smile.
What’s a filling?
Ever felt a sudden twinge of pain while sipping something cold or biting into your food? If so, a cavity could be the culprit. Dental fillings are a common solution for minor to moderate tooth decay, helping to restore your tooth’s strength and function before the damage worsens.
Fillings are commonly used for:
- Cavities
- Tooth wear
- Small cracks or chips
What to expect during the filling process
A dental filling procedure is quite straightforward and is usually completed in a single visit to our practice, with little to no downtime after your procedure.
- Firstly, we administer local anesthesia to eliminate any discomfort during the procedure.
- The tooth is then cleaned of any decay or damage, and all the bacteria are removed.
- Your dentist will apply etching and bonding materials that prepare the surface for the filling.
- Composite is then placed into the cavity little by little and moulded into the desired shape.
- When it is complete, we use a curing light to harden the material and test your bite to ensure that opposing teeth come together comfortably.
- The surface will then be polished for a smooth finish.
After the placement of your dental filling, you may feel some temporary numbness in your mouth that may last for a few hours. During this time, it’s recommended to avoid consuming hard foods for at least 24 hours.
It’s perfectly normal to experience some teeth sensitivity, but this discomfort should gradually subside over a few days.
What’s a dental crown?
If your tooth is more severely damaged – whether from a large cavity, a break, or even after a root canal – a dental crown might be the best solution. Unlike a filling, which only repairs a section of the tooth, a crown covers and protects the entire tooth, restoring both strength and appearance.
Crowns are typically used for:
- Broken or heavily damaged teeth
- Large cavities that can’t be repaired with a filling
- Protecting a tooth after a root canal
- Completing a dental implant
What to expect during the crown process
Getting a dental crown is a multi-step procedure and will require two visits to our practice.
- Your tooth will be prepared by removing any damage or decay, and space will be made for the crown.
- We take an impression of your tooth for a local laboratory to craft your custom-fitted crown.
- Once your custom-made crown is ready, we will place the crown using a strong dental cement, ensuring the perfect fit and keeping your natural smile.
- Finally, the crown is polished to complete a natural look.
After getting a crown, you might feel some sensitivity or puffiness for a day or two.
Following your procedure, you can expect your mouth to remain numb for a few hours. For the first 24 hours, it’s advisable to avoid sticky, chewy, or hard foods to allow the crown to settle comfortably.
Which one Is right for you?
If you have a small to moderate cavity, a filling is usually the best and most affordable option. It’s quick, minimally invasive, and restores your tooth’s function in just one visit. If your tooth is severely damaged or weakened, a crown will likely be the better choice. While it requires two appointments, it provides long-term protection and strength.
If you need a filling or dental crown, call our experienced team to book an appointment today.
*This information is general and not intended to be a substitute for medical advice. For personalised dental advice, consult with your dentist.
