Leaving large metal or composite fillings in your teeth might feel like a money-saving move, but it often sets the stage for serious dental problems down the road. Fillings, especially large ones, weaken the natural tooth structure over time. Unlike crowns, which cover and protect the entire tooth, fillings simply plug the damaged area—offering no structural support. With constant pressure from chewing, large fillings can lead to cracks, fractures, or even complete tooth breakage.

Research shows that teeth with large fillings are over 2.5 times more likely to fracture than those with crowns. Once a tooth cracks, the repair often involves more than a simple filling—it could require a root canal, buildup, and crown, or worse, extraction and replacement. The cost of restoring a failed tooth can quickly jump from a $200–$300 filling to a $1,500+ crown or implant.

Crowns not only restore strength but also seal the tooth, preventing future decay. By proactively placing a crown on a tooth with a large filling, you're protecting the investment you've already made—and avoiding the higher cost and greater discomfort of emergency dental care later. Don’t gamble with fragile teeth—reinforce them before it’s too late.