Teeth go through a lot. From biting into crunchy foods to wear and tear over the years, it’s no surprise when a tooth needs some help. Fillings are usually the first step, sealing off cavities and stopping them from getting worse. But sometimes, a regular filling just isn’t strong enough. In cases like this, it helps to understand when something more protective is needed. That’s where crowns often come in. We see many people asking about crowns in Maple Ridge, especially when older dental work starts to wear out or discomfort returns. Knowing the difference between a filling and a crown can keep your dental care on track and your smile feeling steady.
When a Filling May Not Be Strong Enough
Fillings work well for cavities that are small or moderate in size. They fill in the damaged area of the tooth, helping to stop decay and restore function. But teeth can weaken over time, and a filling might not always be enough support.
• If a crack runs deeper than the surface or a chunk of the tooth breaks off, there may not be enough structure left to support a filling.
• Older fillings can sometimes loosen or leak along the edges. In those cases, new decay can form underneath, creating more risk for breakage.
• When a very large part of the tooth is damaged, filling it in might not keep the tooth stable during regular chewing.
In all of these situations, a crown may provide the coverage and strength a filling can’t. It’s not about doing more dental work than needed. It’s about choosing the right fix for the condition of the tooth.
What Crowns Do That Fillings Can’t
Crowns cover the entire surface of a tooth, starting at the gumline. This makes them stronger than fillings, especially if the tooth has lost a lot of its natural shape.
• Since crowns surround the whole tooth, they help keep it from splitting or cracking further.
• They’re often used when there’s not enough healthy enamel left to secure a filling.
• For molars and other back teeth, which take the most pressure from chewing, crowns can spread out the force more evenly.
A filling adds material inside the problem area of the tooth. A crown supports what’s left of the tooth from the outside. That extra coverage can make all the difference, especially when strength is the main concern.
Common Signs That a Crown Might Be the Next Step
Not every dental concern needs a crown, but there are a few signs that tell us it might be time to go that route.
• A tooth that keeps hurting after a filling is redone often has deeper cracks or decay
• If the area around a filled tooth feels tender when you bite, the structure underneath might be giving out
• Chipped corners, visible cracks, or fillings that keep falling out are other signs a crown could help
We see more cases like this during the colder months, when eating or drinking something hot or cold makes certain teeth feel extra sensitive. People often visit us for crowns in Maple Ridge during the winter holidays, when they notice a tooth isn’t holding up like it used to.
A Look at the Crown Process
Getting a crown sounds like a big step, but the process is pretty simple and not as long as many people imagine.
1. First, we shape the tooth to make room for the crown. This usually involves smoothing down the surface so the crown can fit securely on top.
2. Then, we take a scan or impression so a lab can custom-make a crown that fits your bite and blends in with nearby teeth.
3. While the permanent crown is being made, you’ll wear a temporary one to protect the tooth.
4. Once the real crown is ready, it’s cemented into place, and it should feel almost like your original tooth.
From start to finish, the steps are designed to restore strength and comfort. Most people say it feels natural once it’s done, especially after a few meals when everything settles in.
Kanaka Creek Family Dental uses digital scanning and precise shade matching, so your crown fits securely and matches your natural tooth color.
Choosing the Right Treatment for Your Smile
There isn’t one fix that works for every tooth. Fillings do a great job for small repairs, but when the problem is bigger or the tooth feels shaky, a crown can be the better solution. As winter rolls in and things get colder, more people notice little aches that come up when drinking something hot or biting into firmer foods.
• Stay alert to changes in how your teeth feel during daily routines
• A filling that helped once may not be enough the second or third time around
• Bigger repairs are easier to manage early than if you wait until a problem turns into pain
Thinking ahead during this season can help save you from needing emergency care once the holidays hit full swing.
Keep Your Teeth Strong Through Every Season
A crown often becomes the better choice when a tooth is too worn or damaged for a filling to stay in place. It protects what’s left, keeps chewing balanced, and helps prevent more serious problems later on. If a tooth keeps hurting or you’ve had work redone a few times, it’s worth thinking about whether it’s time for more lasting support.
Choosing the right fix, not just the fastest, can help keep your smile strong and comfortable through winter and every season after. Paying attention to small warning signs now can make a big difference later.
Noticing increased tooth sensitivity or signs of wear could mean it’s time to explore your dental care options. While some cases can be resolved with a simple filling, others may require more support to prevent further damage. We regularly help patients determine when to consider crowns in Maple Ridge, especially if previous dental work is aging or failing. At Kanaka Creek Family Dental, we’re here to guide you at every step and make sure you feel confident moving forward. Contact us if you have concerns, our team is always happy to help.