Fillings, Crowns & Bridges

What Is a Dental Filling Procedure?

During the procedure, your dentist will remove the decaying matter, clean out the cavity and fill the tooth with the material you selected. This will return the tooth’s function and prevent further decay.

What Is a Tooth Crown and a Tooth Bridge?

Crowns, or dental caps, are custom-made restorations that resemble a hollow tooth. The crown goes over your existing tooth after your dentist shapes the tooth to accommodate the crown. Crowns cover discolored teeth, hold a broken tooth together or add strength for a tooth which will support a bridge. A bridge replaces missing teeth with artificial teeth or pontics. The bridge literally spans the gap created by missing teeth, hence their name. Bridges will come with crowns on each end for the abutment teeth, which are the adjoining teeth holding the fixed appliance in place.

Can I See a General Dentist for Fillings, Crowns, and Bridges?

Yes, we urge you to make an appointment for an examination. Your dentist will talk to you about restorations you may need and answer your questions about restoring your smile and oral health.

How Much Will a Filling, Dental Bridge or Dental Crown Cost?

Your tooth filling cost primarily depends on the filling material you choose and your dental insurance coverage. Your crown and dental bridge cost will vary as these are custom-made restorations using the material of your choice. If your dentist needs to do any preparation work to a tooth before putting a crown on it, this will affect your cost. During your appointment, your dentist will go over your anticipated costs once he or she determines your needs and preferences. Call today to schedule an appointment and to learn about our payment options.

What Tooth Filling Materials Do Dentists Recommend?

There isn’t any material that is right for everyone. Your dentist will go over your options with you, which will include amalgam and composite resin. Amalgam is a silver-colored metal which is long-lasting, economical, and strong. Composite resin is a tooth-colored material suitable for small or medium size cavities. It does not last as long as amalgam, but many of our patients feel composite resin fillings are worth replacing more often because of their cosmetic appeal. There are also gold fillings, which are more expensive and take two appointments as gold dental fillings are custom-made in a lab.

Which Are the Strongest Crowns for Teeth?

Gold alloy crowns are the most durable and long lasting; however, most patients will only accept a gold crown for a back tooth no one sees. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are strong and attractive. You have to watch your oral hygiene; receding gums from gum disease will expose the metal under the porcelain. All porcelain crowns are both the most beautiful and the weakest material, but they are strong enough for front teeth, just not molars.

What Are Traditional Dental Bridges?

A traditional bridge restores your smile by placing one or more artificial teeth in the space where you are missing a tooth. Crowns on each end of the bridge slip over the adjacent teeth which will hold the bridge in place. Cantilever bridges only need one adjacent tooth for support. A cantilever bridge can only replace one tooth in the front of your mouth. If you are missing one or more teeth, call our office for a consultation. Your dentist will explain all your options.

How Is a Tooth Crown Put On?

During your first appointment, your dentist will create a mold of your teeth. The dental lab uses the mold to fabricate a lifelike crown that blends in with your other teeth. Next, your dentist will reduce the amount of enamel on your tooth so the crown fits over it. Since the reduced tooth is more sensitive, you’ll wear a temporary crown until you come in for your second visit, which is when you get your permanent crown.

How Is a Fixed Tooth Bridge Put On?

You can have a fixed bridge cover the space left by a missing tooth in just two appointments. First, your dentist needs to create an impression for the dental lab so your permanent bridge is lifelike. During the first visit, your dentist will also contour the two teeth that will have crowns on them after giving you a local anesthetic. On your second visit, in about two weeks, you’ll get your permanent bridge and your dentist will ensure it fits properly before cementing it into place. Your dentist will also explain how to clean your bridge, which will help it last as long as possible.