Whether a tooth needs a filling or a crown depends largely on how much healthy tooth structure remains and how much support the tooth needs.
A filling may be appropriate when the damaged area is relatively small and the remaining tooth is strong enough to support it. A crown may be recommended when a tooth has a large existing filling, significant decay, a fracture, or has lost enough structure that a filling alone may not provide adequate strength.
Dr. Hannahan will review the tooth with you and, whenever possible, use your X-rays and intraoral photographs to show you what she sees and explain why one option may be more appropriate than another.