If you have damaged or decayed teeth needing restoration, you may wonder which is better – crowns or fillings. Both dental crowns and fillings are excellent dental restorations that can reinstate the functions of your teeth and enhance your smile while strengthening and protecting your teeth from further damage.

At Port Melbourne Dental, we offer both options for our patients. After an initial consultation, our dentist will determine the most suitable treatment option based on your needs and concerns.

What are Dental Crowns? 

Dental crowns are protective caps that cover the visible part of your tooth. They are custom-made for your teeth from materials like porcelain, metal or ceramic.

Dental crowns offer both functional and aesthetic benefits and are worth considering if you have:

• A broken tooth
• Severe tooth decay or a large cavity 
• A tooth that needs a significant portion of the tooth to be filled 
• A weak tooth that needs protection 
• A discoloured or stained tooth you wish to cover
• A tooth that’s undergone a root canal treatment 
• A dental implant to replace missing teeth

What are the Benefits of Dental Crowns? 

Some benefits of dental crowns include: 

• Restores functionality and your ability to chew, eat, and speak without any challenges. 
• Protects weak or damaged teeth from further damage, like decay and cracks. 
• Custom-made to match your teeth and provide a natural-looking appearance. 
• Lasts up to 15 years or more with proper care and maintenance. 
• Boosts your smile by improving your smile. 

What are Dental Fillings? 

Dental fillings are a standard dental procedure to address minor decay and cavities. The procedure involves removing the decayed portion of your tooth and filling the space with materials such as porcelain, metal or other composite resin materials. 

Dental fillings are suitable for: 

• Minor tooth decay that has not affected your underlying tooth structures
• Small cavities 
• Damaged teeth with no large cracks 
• Tooth wear 
• Minor tooth discolouration 

What are the Benefits of Tooth Fillings?

• Fillings can last up to 10 years, depending on the material used. 
• Prevents cavities from growing larger while protecting your tooth from decay
• Restores functionality of broken or worn down teeth. 
• Strengthens your natural tooth, making it less vulnerable to fracturing. 
• Improves the appearance of your smile. 

Which is Better: Dental Fillings or Crowns?

When it comes to deciding between dental fillings and crowns, the best solution for you will depend on certain factors. Our dentists at PMD Dental consider the following before recommending the most suitable option for you.

Factors to Consider when Choosing Between Dental Crowns and Fillings? 

1. The Size of the Cavity or Extent of Damage: 

If you have a large cavity or severely damaged teeth, the structural damage to your tooth is greater. In such cases, dental crowns are the preferred option as they cover and protect the entirety of your teeth. Fillings, on the other hand, are used for smaller areas of damage or minor decay. 

2. The Amount of Healthy Enamel Left 

A filling may easily break apart from biting and chewing forces if your enamel isn’t healthy. Crowns may be a better option as they can withstand these forces. 

3. Your Oral Health 

We perform a comprehensive oral health assessment before recommending a solution for you. If you have good oral health with minor decay or damage, fillings can be used to restore your tooth, while crowns are recommended for extensive decay or weakened teeth. 

4. Whether You’ve Had a Root Canal

A root canal treatment removes the infected dental pulp of a severely infected or damaged tooth, eliminating the need for extraction. However, as your tooth tends to be brittle following a root canal, the standard practice is to place a crown over the tooth to enhance strength and protection.

Are Crowns More Expensive Than Fillings?

The cost of dental crowns and fillings depends on several factors, such as the complexity of the procedure, the location of the tooth and the materials used. However, dental crowns can be relatively more expensive than dental fillings.This is because dental crowns can repair damaged teeth and offer more coverage than fillings. Crowns also provide the same strength, functionality and durability as your natural teeth. Designed to match the shape and colour of your natural teeth, they offer a long-lasting solution, making them a great investment.  

Understanding the difference between a dental crown and a filling can help you make informed decisions. Dental crowns are ideal for extensive damage, while fillings address minor issues. Our dentists at Port Melbourne Dental will help you choose the best option for a beautiful and fully functional smile.