Filling vs. Crown: What’s Best for Your Child’s Tooth?

 

 

As moms, we make a million decisions every day—from what’s for dinner to when bedtime really is. But when the dentist says your child has a cavity, and you're told they might need a filling or a crown, it can feel overwhelming. What’s the difference? Is one better than the other? And why would a child ever need a crown?

At Healthy Smile Happy Mom, we believe in moms first, judgment-free guidance—especially when it comes to your family’s health. So let’s walk you through the difference between a filling and a crown, and how to know what’s best for your child’s smile.

---

First Things First: What’s a Filling?

Think of a filling as a small fix. It’s the most common treatment for a cavity. The dentist removes the decayed part of the tooth and fills the space with a material like tooth-colored resin.

When Fillings Are a Good Fit:

• Small to moderate-sized cavities
• Most of the tooth is still healthy
• Quick visit (sometimes less than 30 minutes!)
• Cost-effective and simple

Fillings are great when the cavity is caught early and the damage is minimal. They blend in well with the tooth (especially tooth-colored options), and they’re strong enough to last for a few years—especially on front teeth or smaller molars.

---

So What’s a Crown, and Why Would a Child Need One?

Now, imagine your child’s tooth has a lot of damage—maybe from a big cavity, a chip, or even after a “baby root canal” (called a pulpotomy). A crown acts like a helmet for the tooth. It fits over the top to protect it, restore its shape, and keep it from breaking.

Common Reasons for a Crown:

• Large or deep cavities
• Fragile or cracked teeth
• After a pulpotomy (treatment for an infected nerve)
• If the tooth needs more support than a filling can provide

In pediatric dentistry, stainless steel crowns are often used on back teeth because they’re super durable, while tooth-colored zirconia crowns may be used on front teeth when/if appearance matters.

---

Mom-to-Mom: “But It’s Just a Baby Tooth... Does It Really Need All That, it's just gonna fall out?”

This is one of the most common (and totally valid) questions we hear from moms. It’s true—baby teeth do fall out. But here’s the thing: they matter more than you think.

Baby teeth:

• Help your child chew and speak
• Hold space for permanent teeth
• Guide adult teeth into the right position

If a damaged baby tooth is pulled too early, it can lead to crowding, speech issues, or even orthodontic problems down the road. Saving it with a crown might actually prevent bigger issues later—and fewer tears (for both of you).

---

Feature	Filling	Crown
Best For	Small cavities	Large or deep decay
Durability	Moderate	Very strong
Time	Usually quick	May take longer
Cost	Lower	Higher, but longer-lasting
Tooth Coverage	Partial	Full tooth coverage

---

What Happens During the Appointment?

No matter which option your child needs, pediatric dentists are experts at keeping things calm and comfortable. Most procedures are done under local anesthesia or oral sedation, and many offices offer laughing gas (nitrous oxide) to help your little one relax.

The dentist will walk you through every step, so you’ll never be in the dark. You can even ask for a kid-friendly explanation to help your child feel safe and included.

---

“How Do I Know What My Child Needs?”

Trust your gut—and your dentist. A good pediatric dentist will show you x-rays, as well as photos (if needed), explain the level of damage, and talk you through the pros and cons.

Here’s a general guide:

• Small cavity, caught early? Likely a filling
• Big cavity or weakened tooth? Probably a crown
• Tooth had a pulpotomy? Almost always a crown
• Front tooth with a small cavity? Likely a tooth-colored filling or zirconia crown

Remember: It’s not one-size-fits-all. And if you’re unsure, ask all the questions. That’s what we moms do best!

---

What About Cost?

Let’s be real—dental treatments can be pricey. Fillings usually cost less than crowns, but crowns tend to last longer and may prevent the need for more dental work down the road.

The good news? Many insurance plans cover crowns for children, especially stainless steel ones, when medically necessary. Talk to your dental office about payment plans or insurance options. Don’t let the cost keep you from protecting your child’s smile.

---

Healthy Smile, Happy Future

At the end of the day, whether it’s a filling or a crown, the goal is the same: keep your child’s mouth healthy and pain-free.

Your child’s smile matters. You’re not just treating a tooth—you’re protecting their confidence, their ability to eat and speak, and their future dental health.

And mama, you’re doing great. It’s not always easy to make these decisions, but by learning and asking questions, you’re already taking care of what matters most.