Dental crown or filling: what differs and what to ask
Dental crown or filling? A filling repairs part of a tooth, a crown covers all of it. Here is how they differ and the questions to ask your dentist.
Sofia Benyahia3 min read
Verdict: a filling repairs part of a tooth, and a crown covers all of it. Neither is better in general. Which one fits depends on how much of your tooth is damaged, and only a licensed dentist who has examined it can say.
Which wins on
| Question | Filling | Crown |
|---|---|---|
| What it does | Fills a hole or repairs a small area | Covers the visible part of the tooth like a cap |
| Typical use | A smaller area of damage | A larger area of damage, or a tooth that needs more support |
| Visits | Often one | Often two or more, since it may be made in a lab |
| Tooth removed to fit | Usually less | Usually more, since the tooth is shaped first |
| Cost | Usually lower | Usually higher |
| Needs a dentist's exam | Yes | Yes |
Cost differences are general. Ask for the fee on a written plan.
Pick a filling if
- Your dentist says the damage is limited and the tooth is strong enough
- You are told a filling is a suitable option for that tooth and why
- You want the option that usually removes less of your tooth
Pick a crown if
- Your dentist says too much of the tooth is damaged or weak for a filling
- A tooth has had root canal treatment and needs protection, as advised
- You have been told what the crown is made of and why
These are not recommendations. They are examples of reasons dentists give. Ask yours for the reasons for your tooth.
Decision rule
Ask "what happens to this tooth if I choose the smaller option, and what happens if I choose the larger one?" The answer matters more than the name of the treatment.
Questions to ask your clinic
- Why do you advise a filling or a crown for this tooth?
- What happens if I choose the other one?
- What is it made from, and what are the choices?
- How many visits, and who makes the crown or filling?
- How long does this type usually last, in general, and what affects that?
- What is in the fee, and what could be added?
- What do I do if it comes loose or feels wrong?
Caution
Crowns involve shaping the tooth, and that cannot be undone. Ask what will be removed and why. For larger plans, you can ask another licensed dentist for a second view. See our questions for a treatment plan. If a tooth needs a root canal first, our page on root canal treatment explains that step.
General information only. Ask a licensed dentist about your own case.
Quick questions
Is a crown stronger than a filling?
They do different jobs. A crown covers more of the tooth. Your dentist chooses based on how much tooth is left.
Can a filling be replaced by a crown later?
Sometimes. Ask what is likely for your tooth.
Why is a crown dearer?
Typically it takes more steps, materials and often lab work. Ask for the lines.
What if I feel pain after either?
Contact your dentist. If you have swelling, fever or trouble breathing, seek urgent care.
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