Dental Restoration 101: Should I Get a Dental Crown or Filling?

Dental Crown Glendale, CA

Choosing between a dental crown and a filling depends on the extent of damage and the tooth's strength. A crown offers superior coverage by restoring the entire visible portion of a tooth. At the same time, fillings address smaller areas by sealing decay with materials such as resin composite, amalgam, or porcelain. No matter your preference, both restoration options aim to preserve the health and appearance of your tooth.

Dental fillings vs. dental crowns

There are many ways to restore a smile. Dental professionals will likely recommend the most conservative approach that they believe will be effective for the tooth and the patient's preferences. In some cases, this is a filling to remove the decayed portion of the tooth and restore the structure. Meanwhile, at other times, a dental crown is best for the long-term health of the tooth.

When a dental filling is enough

Dental fillings work well for small to medium-sized cavities confined to one area. A dentist can use silver amalgam or tooth-colored resin composite as the filling material. The former material is known for its durability, while the latter is a modern option that blends with the rest of the patient's smile. With either type, this cavity treatment restores the tooth's shape and function without removing additional healthy tissue.

When a dental crown makes sense

A dental crown is the better choice when a tooth has extensive damage. This dental restoration covers and braces weakened walls, reducing the risk of new cracks or fractures during daily functions. By covering the entire surface of the tooth, a crown can improve the shade and shape of the tooth while restoring its strength and structure.

The dentist will work with the patient to determine whether a dental crown is the right decision for their needs. Common signs that they will need a dental crown over a filling include:

  • More than one-third of the tooth needs to be repaired
  • Cracks or fractures that threaten the tooth's stability
  • History of root canal treatment on the tooth
  • Large, failing fillings have created thin enamel walls
  • Nighttime clenching or grinding has worn down the tooth

Ask the dentist about all the available restorative options and types of crowns during the initial consultation. Common types include porcelain, porcelain-fused-to-metal, metal alloys, and high-strength ceramics such as zirconia. Material selection depends on the location of the tooth, bite forces, and the patient's budget.

Is one choice easier to care for than the other?

Fortunately, both dental restorations are easy to take care of. With routine cleanings, daily brushing and flossing, and night guards for teeth grinding or clenching, both dental crowns and fillings can last for years. Make sure to schedule periodic checks with a trusted dentist to monitor the margins, which are where the edges of the tooth and restoration meet. Early refinements can prevent staining and recurrent decay.

Book a consultation at Clarisse Atakhanian DDS Inc. today

Do you need a dental crown or filling? Schedule a consultation with the Clarisse Atakhanian DDS Inc. team today to compare both options. Call our Glendale office today for more information about the restoration treatments we offer or to schedule an appointment.

Request an appointment here: https://clarisseatakhaniandds.com or call Clarisse Atakhanian DDS Inc. at (818) 483-9071 for an appointment in our Glendale office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Crowns in Glendale, CA.

Recent Posts

5 Reasons You May Have A Loose Dental Crown

Are you looking for information on why you have a loose dental crown? Dental crowns often help protect weak teeth that are weak and would benefit from having the strong support of a crown covering the tooth. When teeth are weak, they are not able to do the job they are supposed to. Thus, people…

Help Your Dental Crowns Last Longer Using These Tips

Clarisse Atakhanian DDS Inc. can provide you with dental crowns if you are in need of a dental restoration. This is one of our most popular solutions because of how durable and long-lasting crowns are. They essentially surround a tooth like a cap, preventing anything from coming in direct contact with it. If your tooth…

Dental Implants Vs. Dental Bridges

We can provide you with dental implants or dental bridges to replace your missing teeth. While we provide preventative dental care to help reduce the risk of tooth loss, this is still an issue that many adults deal with on some level. If you have lost a tooth due to age, infection, or an accident,…

5 Reasons To Work With A CEREC Dentist

Modern dentistry is improving with new technology that enhances patient comfort, convenience, and results. One of the most notable innovations is CEREC. A CEREC dentist provides same-day dental restorations with great precision and efficiency. Choosing this dental provider can change your treatment experience by making it quicker, more reliable, and more comfortable. Here are five…

Recent Posts

Ask A Preventive Dentist:   Common Questions

Ask A Preventive Dentist: 5 Common Questions

A preventive dentist focuses on stopping problems before they start. By pairing routine checkups with good daily habits, patients protect enamel, gums, and long-term oral function. Seeing a preventive dentist helps catch early signs of decay or gum inflammation, guide at-home care, and plan simple treatments that preserve natural tooth structure. Preventive care also supports…

Reasons To Work With A CEREC Dentist

5 Reasons To Work With A CEREC Dentist

Modern dentistry is improving with new technology that enhances patient comfort, convenience, and results. One of the most notable innovations is CEREC. A CEREC dentist provides same-day dental restorations with great precision and efficiency. Choosing this dental provider can change your treatment experience by making it quicker, more reliable, and more comfortable. Here are five…