Know your options and restore your smile with confidence.

Not all dental damage is the same—and neither are the solutions. When a tooth is chipped, decayed, or structurally compromised, one of the most common questions patients ask is: “Do I need a crown, or will a filling be enough?”

At Robert Perry Dental, we help patients understand the difference so they can make informed decisions about their care. In this post, we’ll explain when each treatment is typically used, what to expect, and how to know which option may be right for your smile.

Why Restoring a Damaged Tooth Matters

Whether it’s a small cavity or a deep fracture, untreated damage can lead to bigger issues—pain, infection, shifting teeth, or even tooth loss. Early treatment protects your long-term oral health and restores function, comfort, and appearance.

Both fillings and crowns are reliable ways to rebuild and protect a tooth—but they serve different purposes depending on the amount of damage.

What Is a Filling?

Dental fillings are used to treat small to moderate areas of decay or damage. After removing the decayed portion of the tooth, your dentist fills the area with a composite material that restores strength and seals the surface.

Fillings are typically ideal when:

• The cavity is small and limited to one area
• The tooth structure is mostly intact
• There’s no significant cracking or weakening of the enamel

Benefits of fillings:

• Minimally invasive
• Quick to place (often completed in a single visit)
• Matches the color of your natural teeth
• Cost-effective for smaller repairs

What Is a Crown?

Dental crowns are custom-made “caps” that cover the entire visible part of a tooth, offering full protection and reinforcement. They’re used when the damage is too extensive for a filling to safely support the tooth.

Crowns are often recommended when:

• A large portion of the tooth is decayed, broken, or missing
• The tooth has undergone root canal therapy
• There are visible cracks or structural weakness
• The tooth needs aesthetic enhancement in addition to strength

Benefits of crowns:

• Provides complete coverage and durability
• Strengthens teeth at risk of fracturing
• Restores chewing function and appearance
• Designed to last many years with proper care

How We Help You Decide

At Robert Perry Dental, we never take a one-size-fits-all approach. We’ll examine your tooth, review X-rays, and explain what we’re seeing—then recommend the option that best protects your long-term health and comfort. In some cases, we may recommend an inlay, onlay, or temporary solution if further evaluation is needed.

We’ll always walk you through:

• Why a filling or crown is appropriate
• What the procedure involves
• How long it will take
• What to expect afterward

Protect Your Smile with the Right Care

Choosing between a crown and a filling doesn’t have to be confusing. With expert guidance and conservative care, we help you make the best decision for your smile’s future.

Schedule a consultation with Robert Perry Dental today to evaluate your tooth and find the restoration option that fits you best