If you’ve been told you need dental work, you might be wondering whether a filling or a crown is the right option—and what the difference between the two is. At Bridgford Dental, this is one of the most common questions we hear from patients. While both treatments are used to restore teeth, they serve different purposes depending on the extent of damage and the health of the surrounding tooth structure.

What Is a Filling?

A dental filling is used to repair a small to moderate area of decay or damage. It’s a straightforward treatment that involves removing the decayed portion of the tooth, cleaning the area, and filling it with a durable material. Fillings are most commonly used for treating cavities but are also suitable for repairing minor chips, fractures, or wear caused by grinding or erosion.

At Bridgford Dental, we typically use tooth-coloured composite resin for our fillings. This material not only blends naturally with your teeth but also bonds strongly to the tooth surface, preserving as much of the healthy structure as possible. The procedure is usually completed in a single visit and is minimally invasive, making it one of the most common and cost-effective restorative treatments available.

While fillings are effective, they do have limitations. They’re not suitable for large cavities or when the tooth has been significantly weakened. Over time, fillings may wear down and need replacing—particularly if placed in areas that endure heavy chewing pressure.

What Is a Crown?

A crown, often referred to as a “cap,” is used to restore a tooth when a filling simply isn’t enough. It is designed to cover the entire visible portion of the tooth, restoring its shape, strength, and appearance. Crowns are commonly recommended when a tooth is severely decayed, cracked, or structurally compromised—especially after root canal treatment.

The process for fitting a crown usually involves reshaping the affected tooth, taking a digital or physical impression, and then fitting a custom-made crown over it. At Bridgford Dental, we offer a range of crown materials, including porcelain, zirconia, and metal alloys, chosen based on your specific needs and the location of the tooth. Crowns offer excellent strength and durability, especially for molars or teeth involved in heavy biting forces.

Because a crown requires more preparation of the tooth than a filling, it’s usually completed over two appointments—though in some cases, same-day crown technology may be an option. Though more costly than a filling, a crown provides long-term protection for vulnerable teeth and can last for many years with proper care.

So, What’s the Difference?

The key difference lies in the extent of coverage and the condition of the tooth. Fillings are ideal for repairing small areas of decay or damage while preserving as much of the natural tooth as possible. They’re quick, conservative, and cost-effective—perfect for minor cavities or superficial wear.

Crowns, on the other hand, are used when the damage is more significant and the tooth requires full coverage to restore function and protect it from further harm. They are more durable and offer superior strength, especially when a tooth has been weakened due to large cavities, fractures, or root canal work.

If you’re dealing with a small cavity in a healthy tooth, a filling is likely all you’ll need. However, if the tooth is badly decayed, heavily filled already, or structurally compromised, a crown may be the better long-term solution. Likewise, if you’ve had a root canal, your dentist will usually recommend a crown to protect the remaining tooth structure from cracking under pressure.

Making the Right Choice for Your Smile

Choosing between a filling and a crown is not just about the size of the cavity—it also involves considering the strength and integrity of the remaining tooth, your bite, and even your oral hygiene habits. At Bridgford Dental, we always take a conservative, personalised approach to your treatment. We’ll explain your options clearly, show you any relevant x-rays or scans, and help you make a confident, informed decision.

Your comfort and long-term oral health are our top priorities. We only recommend crowns when we believe a filling won’t provide the strength or longevity your tooth needs. Likewise, we’ll never suggest unnecessary work if a simple filling will do the job effectively.

Looking After Restorations

Whether you have a crown or a filling, caring for your dental restorations is vital. Good oral hygiene—brushing twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and keeping up with regular check-ups—will help your dental work last longer and protect the rest of your natural teeth. Avoid chewing on hard objects like pens, ice, or fingernails, and let us know if you grind your teeth, as this can wear down restorations over time.

So, What’s The Best Option?

Both crowns and fillings play essential roles in restorative dentistry, but they serve different purposes. Fillings are ideal for smaller repairs and quick fixes, while crowns offer full protection for teeth that are significantly weakened or damaged. If you’re unsure which is right for you, don’t worry—we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

At Bridgford Dental, we take the time to assess your individual needs and explain your options clearly. Whether it’s a simple filling or a full crown, we’ll make sure you get the treatment that best supports your smile’s health, function, and appearance for years to come.