Both a crown and a filling are solutions to address and prevent further tooth decay. A filling is used when a cavity is present. First, your dentist will apply a local anesthetic, remove the decayed part of the tooth, and replace it with a filling. Then, your tooth will be buffed to soften the contour.
A crown covers the entire tooth above the gum line and is used to solve a variety of dental issues. When the tooth has severe decay and a filling will no longer address the problem, a crown is needed. A crown can also cover a tooth that is misshaped, discolored, chipped, or broken.