When a tooth is damaged, decayed, or weakened, one of the first questions patients ask is whether it can simply be filled, or whether a crown is needed. While both treatments aim to restore function and protect the tooth, they serve very different purposes.
At Battersea Smiles, patients often arrive unsure which option is best, especially if they’ve been told a filling may no longer be enough. Understanding the difference between dental crowns and fillings helps you make an informed choice that protects your tooth long term, not just in the short term.
This guide explains how fillings and crowns work, when each is recommended, and how dentists decide which option offers the best outcome.
A dental filling is used to repair small to moderate areas of tooth damage, most commonly caused by decay. After removing the decayed portion of the tooth, the dentist fills the space with a restorative material to restore shape and function.
Modern fillings are typically made from tooth coloured composite resin, which blends naturally with surrounding enamel. These materials bond directly to the tooth, allowing for conservative treatment with minimal removal of healthy structure.
Fillings are often recommended when:
Because fillings are less invasive, patients sometimes wonder whether they’re always the better option. However, this depends heavily on how much natural tooth remains.
A dental crown is a protective cap that fully covers a tooth, restoring its strength, shape, and appearance. Crowns are typically recommended when a tooth has been significantly weakened and needs reinforcement.
Crowns may be made from porcelain, ceramic, or a combination of materials chosen for durability and aesthetics. Once fitted, they act like a strong outer shell, allowing the tooth to function normally again.
Crowns are commonly used when:
Learn more about restorative options on our general dentistry page.
The decision isn’t based on preference; it’s based on structural integrity. Dentists assess how much healthy tooth remains and how much pressure the tooth needs to withstand during chewing.
A question patients often ask is whether a large filling can simply be replaced again. While that’s sometimes possible, repeated large fillings weaken the remaining enamel, increasing the risk of fracture. In these cases, a crown provides protection that a filling cannot.
According to the British Dental Association, teeth with extensive restorations are far more likely to fracture without crown coverage.
Longevity is a key factor in treatment planning.
While fillings are less costly initially, crowns often offer better long term value when a tooth is already compromised.
The British Dental Journal notes that crowns significantly reduce the risk of catastrophic tooth fracture in heavily restored teeth.
Fillings restore shape but do not reinforce the tooth in the same way a crown does. This is especially important for molars, which absorb heavy biting forces.
Patients sometimes ask whether crowns are only for back teeth. In reality, crowns are used throughout the mouth, including front teeth, when strength, aesthetics, or alignment needs to be restored.
Modern crowns are designed to look natural, matching surrounding teeth in colour and translucency.
Filling Appointment
Fillings are usually completed in a single visit.
Crown Appointment
Crowns typically require two visits, although some practices may offer same-day options depending on materials used.
Both treatments are carried out with local anaesthetic, ensuring comfort throughout. Mild sensitivity afterwards is normal and temporary.
Patients often ask whether crowns feel bulky, once fitted correctly, they should feel just like a natural tooth. Bite checks ensure comfort and proper alignment.
Restorations must integrate smoothly with the gumline to prevent irritation or plaque build-up. Poorly fitting fillings or crowns can increase the risk of gum disease if not monitored.
Regular hygiene appointments help keep restored teeth healthy. You can read more about this on our hygiene treatment page.
Well maintained restorations contribute to better gum health and overall oral stability.
In some cases, yes, early intervention can prevent the need for more extensive treatment. Regular check-ups allow dentists to identify decay before it compromises the tooth’s structure.
This is why routine monitoring and preventive care remain essential, even if your teeth feel fine.
Patients sometimes worry that being advised a crown means their tooth is “beyond saving.” In reality, crowns are often what save teeth that would otherwise fracture or fail.
Choosing between a filling and a crown isn’t about over treatment, it’s about choosing the option that gives your tooth the best chance of lasting comfortably for years to come.
At Battersea Smiles, treatment recommendations are based on long-term oral health, function, and comfort, not just short-term fixes.
Fillings and crowns both play important roles in modern dentistry. Fillings are ideal for smaller repairs, while crowns provide essential protection when teeth are weakened.
Understanding the difference helps you feel confident in treatment decisions and ensures your smile stays strong, functional, and healthy long-term.
To discuss your options or book an assessment, contact Battersea Smiles or call 020 7228 5478.
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