One of the most common questions I get from patients is, “Can you just fill it”, or “do I really need a crown?” It’s a great question—and one that deserves a clear, honest answer.
At Complete Dental Care, we’re all about preserving your natural teeth and helping you avoid unnecessary procedures. Let’s take a closer look at how we determine whether a tooth needs a filling or a crown—and what that means for your long-term dental health.
What’s the Difference Between a Filling and a Crown?
A filling is used to repair a small area of damage—usually from a cavity. We clean out the decay, then fill the space with a tooth-colored composite material to restore your tooth’s shape and function.
A crown, on the other hand, is like a protective cap that covers the entire visible portion of the tooth. It’s typically used when a tooth is too damaged or weak to hold a filling without breaking.
Think of it like patching a small hole in your wall (a filling) versus reinforcing the whole structure when the wall is cracking (a crown).
When Is a Filling the Right Choice?
Fillings are a quick, effective solution for:
- Small to moderate cavities
- Minor chips or wear
- Decay caught early during a routine checkup
If you’re unsure whether that twinge you’re feeling could be a cavity, take a look at our blog on How Do I Know If I Have One?. It breaks down the signs and symptoms to watch for.
When Does a Tooth Need a Crown Instead?
Crowns come into play when:
- There’s too much tooth structure missing for a filling to hold
- A tooth is cracked or broken
- You’ve had a root canal (which leaves the tooth more fragile)
- An old filling has failed and the tooth needs more support
In many of these cases, a crown is the only way to save the tooth and prevent further damage
We talk more about root canal after-care (and the role crowns play) in our blog on Understanding Root Canal Costs in Phoenix, which explains why crowns are almost always recommended after that type of treatment.
How Do We Decide Which One You Need?
It all comes down to how much healthy tooth structure is left. At your appointment, we’ll examine the tooth, take digital X-rays, and walk you through the options.
We never recommend a crown unless it’s necessary to protect your tooth for the long run. If we can save it with a filling, we will. But if a filling won’t last or puts your tooth at risk of breaking, we’ll talk about a crown as the more safe and predictable option.
Waiting Can Make Things Worse
It’s worth repeating: dental problems don’t get better on their own.
A cavity that could be handled with a small filling today might grow large enough to need a crown—or even a root canal—if it’s left untreated. And if the tooth cracks or becomes infected, it could be lost altogether.
Prevention is always better. If you haven’t had a checkup recently, our blog on The Importance of Preventative Dentistry is a great reminder of why routine visits matter so much.
Let’s Take a Look Together
Not sure what your tooth needs? That’s what we’re here for.
At Complete Dental Care, we’ll evaluate your situation, explain everything clearly, and help you make the best choice for your smile. Whether it’s a simple filling or a protective crown, we’ll take care of it with your comfort in mind.
Ready to find out what’s going on with that tooth?
Let’s get you scheduled—so we can catch problems early and keep your smile strong!