Dental Crowns and Fillings – What’s the Difference?

If you have damaged or decayed teeth, your dentist might have suggested that you receive dental crowns or fillings. The two services are effective methods of restoring the function and aesthetic of teeth. However, the similarities pretty much stop there. They each serve a unique purpose and are not as interchangeable as you may think they are. Read along as your dentist in Fort Worth explains the differences between dental crowns and fillings.

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are tooth-shaped caps placed over teeth to restore their shape, size, strength, and appearance. They’re custom-made to encase the entire visible portion of the tooth perfectly, from the gum line up to its chewing surface. Crowns have a high success rate and are an excellent long-term solution for repairing teeth. With proper dental care, they can last anywhere between five to fifteen years!

Dental Fillings

Dental fillings treat minor damage, such as a small cavity or chip. They seal off places where bacteria can get in, preventing further decay and damage. Fillings are one of the most efficient solutions for repairing teeth while preserving most of the tooth’s structure. They are made of one or more materials, including amalgam, porcelain, composite resin, or gold. Like dental crowns, fillings can also last up to 15 years with proper dental care.

The Differences Between Dental Crowns and Fillings

The following are a few key differences between dental crowns and fillings.

Purpose

Dental crowns encase teeth completely, improving their strength. They’re often used to restore severely decayed or damaged teeth that still have viable roots.  A crowned tooth can withstand a high level of chewing pressure without risk of damage. A dentist will often recommend a crown when the structural integrity of a tooth is compromised.

Fillings cannot improve the strength of teeth as much as crowns, so they’re only used when strength is not a concern. Dentists will use fillings to repair minor decay or damage, such as small chips, cracks, gaps, or cavities. They seal teeth to provide additional structural stability, preventing further damage.

Procedure

In preparation for a dental crown, your dentist will file down the tooth to the correct shape. It is an irreversible procedure, which is why it’s only performed when a tooth is severely damaged or decayed. In most cases, the tooth in question will require a filling before a crown is fitted.

If your tooth has minor decay or damage, your dentist will remove the infected portion, clean the area, and fill it with one or more materials. Most dentists offer composite resin, amalgam (or a silver filling), gold, or porcelain.

Cost

The cost of each service depends on the materials used. However, crowns are generally more expensive because the procedure takes a bit longer than fillings. If you want to save time and money, fillings might be the ideal solution since they cost less and only require one visit.

As you can see, dental crowns and fillings are much more different than they might appear. If you’re having trouble deciding which one’s best for your smile, ask your dentist for help. Ultimately, they’re the only ones who can suggest the best treatment for your oral health!

About the Practice

At Drennan Family Dentistry, we go above and beyond to make every dental visit comfortable, enjoyable, and satisfying. Our team has helped patients achieve and maintain their best smiles for over 40 years. If you’re unsure whether you need dental crowns or fillings, our dentist can evaluate your oral health and recommend the best treatment for your needs. Visit our website or call (817) 732-5522 to schedule an appointment.