Filling vs Crown – Differences, Indications, and What to Choose for a Damaged Tooth

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Boris Lipovetskiy, DMD, 31 years experience

Dental Wellness Center
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Filling or Crown – Which One Should You Choose?

How can you keep your decaying tooth healthy for a long time? A filling is quick and affordable, but in some cases, it may not be reliable. A crown is strong and durable, but placing one takes more time and costs more.

In this article, we’ll explain when minimal intervention is enough and when it’s better not to cut corners.

If you’re unsure whether you need a filling, a crown, or a different treatment method, visit a dental clinic. A dentist will perform a full diagnosis and choose the best restoration option for your case.

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What Is a Dental Filling?

A dental filling is a type of tooth restoration. The dentist applies a filling material to the damaged area of the tooth, filling in any cavities in the enamel or dentin.

Its main purpose is to seal the affected area, protect the tooth from bacteria, and restore its function.

Advantages

Quick procedure. The treatment takes 30–60 minutes.

Cost-effective. Fillings are cheaper than crowns.

Tooth structure preservation. The dentist removes only the damaged or infected areas.

Disadvantages

Short lifespan. On average, lasts 5–10 years.

Not suitable for severely damaged teeth. If the tooth walls are too thin, the filling may quickly break or fall out.

Types of Dental Fillings

Fillings are placed after treating cavities or repairing mechanical damage. The material is chosen based on strength, aesthetics, and cost:

Composite Fillings – A modern material that matches the color of your enamel. It looks great but may wear down or darken over time.

Ceramic Fillings – Durable, color-stable, and blend well with natural enamel. However, they are more expensive.

Amalgam Fillings – An outdated option. This material contains toxic mercury. Dr. Boris Lipovetskiy offers amalgam removal at Mercury Safe Dental Clinic in Fort Lauderdale.

Which Type of Filling Is Best?

The ideal filling is strong, safe, and aesthetically pleasing. That’s why we use composite and ceramic materials in our clinic. They look natural, last a long time, and contain no harmful substances.

We also follow strict safety protocols. When removing old amalgam fillings, we use a special mercury-safe method to eliminate any health risks.

We only utilize safe treatment methods. That’s why we safely remove old amalgam fillings following a special protocol to eliminate health risks.

What Is a Dental Crown?

A dental crown is a type of prosthetic that protects a tooth, restoring its shape and function. Our Dentists Use Different Types of Crowns:

Ceramic Crowns

Made entirely of ceramic, they closely resemble natural teeth. They don’t darken over time and are hypoallergenic. Most commonly used for front teeth.

Zirconia Crowns

The most advanced and durable option. They are lightweight, biocompatible, and gentle on the gums. Suitable for both front and back teeth.

Advantages

Strength. Crowns can withstand heavy chewing forces and don’t chip easily.

Durability. They last between 10 to 20 years.

Protection and reliability. They cover and support weakened teeth, preventing further damage.

Natural appearance. Ceramic and zirconia crowns look just like natural teeth.

Wear resistance. They retain their shape and help maintain a proper bite for many years.

Which Type of Crown Is Best?

At our clinic, we use ceramic and zirconia crowns because they offer the perfect combination of aesthetics, safety, and strength:

Natural appearance – Gentle on the gums and surrounding teeth.

Hypoallergenic – Safe even for patients with sensitive gums.

Strong and long-lasting – Zirconia handles heavy chewing, while ceramic maintains its beauty for years. Lifespan up to 20 years.

Comfortable to wear – Lightweight, don’t press on the gums, and don’t wear down neighboring teeth.

Book a consultation – We’ll help you choose crowns that are not only reliable, but also perfectly match your natural teeth.

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When Is a Filling Enough, and When Do You Need a Crown?

When Is a Filling Suitable?

Medium or shallow cavities.

Minor tooth chips.

Replacing an old filling.

When Is a Crown Needed?

More than 50% of the tooth is damaged.

Tooth walls are severely thinned.

After root canal treatment.

Clinical Experience

Patients often ask how to restore a tooth in the following situations:

Cavities on front teeth. Composite fillings or ceramic veneers are suitable (veneers offer better aesthetics). In cases of severe damage, a crown may be required.

Damage to a molar. If the tooth is significantly compromised, a strong zirconia crown is the best choice—it can handle heavy chewing.

Urgent restoration needed. Temporary crowns or fillings can be placed to quickly address the problem until a permanent solution is ready.

An old filling fell out. If possible, the dentist will replace it with a new filling. If the tooth is too damaged, a crown may be necessary.

Tooth sensitivity. Veneers or crowns made of zirconia or ceramic are ideal, as they are gentle on the gums and reduce irritation.

Not sure whether you need a filling, veneer, or crown?

Book a consultation with a dentist in Fort Lauderdale and get personalized advice!

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Differences Between Fillings and Crowns

	Fillings	Dental Crowns
Purpose	Restoration of minor defects.	Restoration of extensive tooth damage.
Materials	Composite, ceramic.	Zirconia, ceramic.
Lifespan	5–10 years.	10–20 years or more.
Aesthetics	Composite may darken over time; ceramic looks like natural enamel.	Appears as natural as your real teeth.
Cost	Lower.	Higher.
Durability	Handles moderate pressure; may chip under heavy force.	Suitable for high chewing loads.
Placement Time	Single appointment.	Two to three dental visits.
Comfort	Only damaged tissue is removed.	Requires more reshaping of the tooth; may cause temporary sensitivity.

What’s More Affordable – a Filling or a Crown?

On average, a filling costs 2–3 times less than a crown. However, fillings typically need to be replaced every 5–7 years. A crown, with proper care, can last over 20 years. So in the long run, a crown may be the more cost-effective option.

At our clinic in Fort Lauderdale, we offer both fillings and crowns at competitive prices. We also regularly run special promotions and provide CareCredit financing to make treatment more accessible.

Helpful Articles:

Getting a Dental Filling – A Quick and Simple Process

Examination and Diagnosis

The dentist evaluates the condition of the tooth and takes an X-ray to determine the depth of the cavity.
Anesthesia (if needed)

If the cavity is deep, the dentist numbs the area to ensure a pain-free experience.
Cavity Removal and Tooth Preparation

Infected tissues are removed, and the cavity is cleaned with an antiseptic solution.
Filling Placement and Polishing

The dentist applies the filling material in layers, restores the natural shape of the tooth, and polishes the surface for a smooth, natural-looking finish.

Procedure time: 30–60 minutes.

Tooth filling: before, isolation, caries removal, etching, primer and bonding, filling, LED light cure, polishing

Tooth Crown Placement Step-by-Step Process

Examination and Preparation

The dentist evaluates the tooth and takes an X-ray to assess its condition.
Tooth Shaping and Impression

A thin layer of enamel is removed around the entire tooth to create a base (called a “tooth stump”). Then, a digital scan is taken.
Temporary Crown Placement

A temporary crown is placed to protect the prepared tooth while the permanent crown is being made.
Crown Fabrication

A dental lab creates a custom crown from ceramic or zirconia. This typically takes 3–5 days.
Fitting and Final Placement

At the next visit, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent one is tried on. The dentist adjusts the fit and secures it with dental cement.

Procedure time: 2–3 visits.

Can You Get a Filling If the Tooth Is Severely Damaged?

If more than half of the tooth is destroyed, a filling is usually not a reliable solution. Over time, it may crack or fall out due to chewing pressure, leading to repeated restorations.

In such cases, dentists recommend stronger and more durable crowns.

Book a consultation to find out how badly the tooth is damaged and which restoration method is right for you.

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Caring for Teeth After Filling or Crown

To make your filling, crown, or bridge last as long as possible, proper dental care is essential:

Brush twice a day using a medium-bristle toothbrush and fluoride toothpaste.

Clean between your teeth with dental floss and a water flosser to remove plaque from hard-to-reach areas.

Be cautious with hard foods. Avoid biting nuts, crackers, and other hard items with your front teeth—they can damage restorations.

Visit your dentist regularly. Routine check-ups every 6–12 months help catch issues early and prevent complex treatments.

These simple habits will extend the life of your restorations and keep your teeth healthy!

FAQ

Which Teeth Can Be Restored with a Filling, and Which Need a Crown?

If the damage is minor, a filling is enough. But if more than half the tooth is destroyed, a crown is recommended—otherwise, the tooth may break under pressure.

What Are the Most Reliable Crowns?

Ceramic and zirconia crowns are the strongest and most durable options. They also look just like natural teeth.

Can You Avoid a Crown If the Tooth Is Badly Damaged?

Rarely. If a filling isn’t enough and you’re hesitant about getting a crown, your dentist may suggest an inlay, onlay, or veneer instead. However, the best solution depends on the condition of the tooth and requires a detailed diagnosis.