Dental Crown vs Filling: What Are the Differences?

When it comes to fixing a damaged tooth, you may find it hard to decide between crown or a filling. It’s not just about choosing one over the other, it’s about understanding which option works best for you. Here, we are to tell you all about the differences between dental crown vs filling. Keep reading to learn more.

What is a Dental Crown vs Filling?

A filling is a treatment method to fix small issues, like cavities or minor decay. Our dentist removes the damaged part of your tooth and fills the space with materials like composite resin, silver amalgam, or gold. It’s quick, affordable, and works well for small repairs.

On the other hand, a dental crown is a cap that covers the entire visible part of a tooth. Dentists use it for bigger problems, like cracked teeth, large cavities, or teeth weakened by root canals. They are made from materials like porcelain, metal, or ceramic. They are custom-made to protect the tooth and restore its shape, size, and strength.

What Are the Differences Between a Crown and a Filling?

We use both of them to fix damaged teeth, but they are different in aspects like how they work and what they treat. Let’s see the main differences between dental crowns vs dental fillings Phoenix.

Dental Crown vs Filling: Material

Different types of fillings include:

• Composite resins
• Amalgam
• Gold
• Glass

Different types of crowns include:

• Porcelain or ceramic
• Metal
• Porcelain-fused-to-metal
• Zirconia

Dental Crown vs Filling: Procedure

When it comes to dental fillings, our dentist numbs the area, removes the decay, cleans the tooth, and fills the cavity with a material like composite resin or amalgam. The filling is then shaped, hardened, and polished to match your natural teeth

For crowns, our dentist numbs the area, reshapes the tooth, and takes an impression or scan. We place a temporary crown while the permanent one is custom-made. On the second visit, we remove the temporary one, and the permanent crown is fitted in place.

Dental Crown vs Filling: Effectiveness

Fillings are completed in 30-60 minutes, and have a success rate of around 85-90% for treating small cavities or minor tooth decay in patients with strong, healthy tooth structure. But, crowns take 1-2 hours over two visits. They have a higher success rate of around 93-97% for protecting and restoring severely damaged or weakened teeth.

If you want to learn how these 2 treatments can help you based on your condition, stop Googling “tooth filling near me“ and contact us at (602) 246-0385.

Pros and Cons of Dental Crowns and Fillings

Fillings

Pros

• Preserve natural tooth structure.
• Complete quickly in one visit.
• Save money compared to crowns.
• Work well for small cavities.

Cons

• Crack under heavy pressure.
• Fail sooner than crowns.
• Wear down faster on molars.
• Struggle with larger tooth damage.

Crowns

Pros

• Strengthen weak or damaged teeth.
• Protect against further damage.
• Last longer with proper care.
• Improve the appearance of teeth.

Cons

• Remove more natural tooth structure.
• Cost more than fillings.
• Take longer unless done same-day.
• Cause initial sensitivity.

Dental Crown vs Filling: Cost

Fillings are less expensive than crowns because they procedure and less material. Crowns cost more due to their complexity, custom design, and durability. Insurance typically covers up to 80% for fillings and up to 50% for crowns, as they are considered basic care, while crowns are classified as major restorative work.

Which Is Better: Dental Crown vs Filling?

Choosing between dental crown vs filling depends on your conditions and the extent of tooth damage. Consider these factors when deciding between these 2 dental treatments:

Suitable Situations for a Dental Filling:

• Small cavities with minimal decay
• Minor chips or cracks in the tooth
• Teeth that are structurally sound with no risk of further damage
• Patients seeking a quicker, cost-effective treatment

Suitable Situations for a Dental Crown:

• Large cavities or extensive decay that weakens the tooth
• Cracked, fractured, or broken teeth needing stabilization
• Teeth that have undergone a root canal and need extra protection
• Worn-down teeth from grinding or aging
• Teeth with large existing fillings needing additional strength

Dental Crown and Filling Treatment Near Me in Phoenix, AZ

If you’re in Phoenix and want to make the best decision according to your dental conditions, we can help you. We offer the best treatments based on your needs. Whether you need a quick filling or a durable crown, they’ve got you covered. All you need to do is make an online appointment for a free consultation.

Dental Crown vs Filling: Let’s Recap

Considering all these points, choosing between a dental crown and a filling depends on different factors. You can go for fillings if you have small cavities. But, if you need better protection for weak or damaged teeth, crowns can be a better option. In this guide, we tried to answer all your questions about the differences between dental crown vs filling​. If you still have questions in mind, contact us at (602) 246-0385.

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