Victory Smiles

Filling vs. Crown: How Dentists Choose the Right Repair

Fixing a broken tooth helps prevent the issue from getting worse and ultimately protects the tooth.

When a tooth is damaged, two common solutions come up: fillings and crowns. But how does your dentist decide which one you need?

Crowns and fillings are two very different restorative options, so choosing the correct one for the situation is vital.

It all depends on the extent of the damage, the location of the tooth, and your long-term oral health goals.

Keep reading to learn more about how our dentist decides between a filling or crown.

Fillings: Best for Small Cavities and Quick Repairs

A dental filling is a conservative treatment. Dentists remove the decayed portion of the tooth and replace it with a tooth-colored resin or amalgam material. Fillings work well when:

The cavity is small or moderate
The surrounding tooth structure is strong
Quick, cost-effective treatment is preferred

They’re often done in a single visit and preserve more of your natural tooth.

Crowns: Full-Coverage Protection for Heavily Damaged Teeth

A crown, or “cap,” completely covers a tooth that’s too weak or damaged to survive on its own. Dentists typically recommend crowns when:

There’s a large fracture or deep decay
A root canal has been performed
A filling would risk the tooth breaking

Crowns are more durable and last longer, especially for molars that endure heavy chewing pressure.

Why This Decision Matters

Choosing the wrong treatment can lead to cracks, recurring decay, or additional cost later. That’s why a proper dental exam is essential before deciding. Our restorative dentist in Houston will carefully evaluate your tooth, including the type and extent of damage. Whenever possible, we opt for a filling to preserve more tooth structure. However, if a crown is best for the long-term health of your smile, we will certainly advise it.