Do you have a damaged tooth and feel unsure about the right treatment? If you visit a dentist in Hamilton, you may hear suggestions for a filling or a crown. Both treatments fix damaged teeth, but they are used for different problems. Knowing the signs ahead of time can help you feel more confident before your dental visit.
This guide explains the difference in simple terms, so you know what to expect and when each option makes sense.
When is Dental Filling Enough?
If a cavity or damage is small, dental fillings in Hamilton are often the first choice. A filling repairs the damaged area and restores the tooth’s shape without covering the entire tooth.
Fillings are commonly used when:
- Decay is minor and caught early.
- A small chip or crack is present.
- Old fillings need replacement.
- The tooth structure is still strong.
Because fillings require less tooth removal, they are usually quicker and more affordable. They also help stop decay from spreading deeper into the tooth.
Signs You May Need a Filling
A dental professional may suggest a filling if you notice:
- Mild tooth sensitivity to hot or cold
- Food is getting stuck in one area.
- A small dark spot on the tooth
- Minor pain when biting
These signs often mean the damage is limited and can be repaired without extra support.
When Is a Dental Crown the Better Option?
Crowns are used when a tooth needs more protection. They cover the entire tooth and help restore strength when damage is more severe.
Dentists consider crowns when:
- A tooth has a large cavity.
- A crack weakens the tooth.
- A filling would not be strong enough.
- A tooth has had root canal treatment.
Learning about the types of dental crowns and prices can help you understand why this option may be recommended. Crowns can be made from different materials, each offering its own balance of strength, appearance, and cost.
Signs a Crown May Be Needed
A crown is the appropriate selection for you.
- Discomfort while chewing.
- Fractures that go far beyond the tooth.
- A tooth that feels weak or damaged.
- A significant filling that continues to shatter.
The tooth may need full coverage to prevent further damage in these cases.
Filling vs. Crown: Simple Comparison
Here is a quick way to understand the difference:
- Fillings repair small areas and preserve most of the natural tooth.
- Crowns protect teeth with major damage and restore full strength.
- Fillings are usually faster and cost less.
- Crowns last longer for heavily damaged teeth.
Your dentist will check X-rays and tooth structure before recommending the best option.
Does Insurance Affect the Choice?
Many patients ask about insurance coverage for dental crowns. Your plan and why you’re getting treated may affect your coverage. Fillings are often covered at a higher percentage. Crowns may have limits or waiting periods.
A dental team can review your insurance and explain.
- Which section is covered?
- Costs that are not covered by your plan.
- If needed, payment options.
This allows you to avoid any surprises in your decision.
How Dentists Decide What You Need
Dentists look at several factors before recommending a filling or crown, including
- Size and depth of the cavity
- Tooth strength and location
- Bite pressure in that area
- Long-term tooth health
The goal is always to save as much of your natural tooth as possible while keeping it strong.
Take the Next Step Toward a Stronger Smile!
A thorough dental exam allows a dentist to determine whether a filling or a crown will work for your tooth. At Centre Mall Dental, we take the time to explain everything clearly, only recommend what we feel is best, and perform care that is health-promoting for the long term. Book an appointment today to get personal advice and take a simple step toward protecting your smile.
FAQs
Can a filling later turn into a crown?
Yes. If a cavity gets bigger or a filling becomes weak or breaks, a dentist may recommend a crown to better protect and make the tooth stronger.
Do crowns last longer than fillings?
In many cases, crowns last longer because they cover and support the entire tooth, especially in areas with strong chewing pressure.
Are crowns only for back teeth?
No. Crowns can be placed on both front and back teeth, depending on how much damage the tooth has and its role in your bite.
Is getting a crown painful?
The procedure is usually comfortable. Numbing is used to prevent pain, and most patients feel little to no discomfort during treatment.