Fillings, Crowns & Bridges

Why Is a Filling Needed in a Tooth?

If you have a tooth damaged by decay, your dentist will have to remove the decay and fill the cavity with a tooth filling material which will return the tooth to its original shape, appearance and functionality. You and your dentist will agree on the material used beforehand.

What Dental Problems Require Crowns for Teeth and Dental Bridges?

Both crowns and bridges are indirect restorations, made in a dental lab from impressions made by your dentist. In many cases, crowns will closely resemble your natural teeth and no one will realize you have a crown. A tooth crown completely covers a severely damaged tooth or strengthens a tooth which will anchor a bridge. Crowns can also attach to implants as a way to replace a missing tooth. A tooth bridge uses one or more artificial teeth to bridge a gap where you have missing teeth. The artificial teeth have crowns on either end for the teeth that will anchor the bridge.

What Type of Dentist Offers Restorative Dentistry?

General and family dentists offer both preventative and restorative services. Call us to schedule an exam and one of our dentists can assess your situation and see if you need any fillings or crowns. You can also discuss replacing a missing tooth with a bridge.

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

We base your tooth filling cost on the condition of your tooth and the filling material you select. If you have dental insurance coverage, fillings are typically at least partially covered. We base your dental crown cost on what it takes to prepare your tooth and the type of crown you select. We base your fee for a bridge on the materials the dental lab will use to craft your bridge and the number of artificial teeth in the bridge. If you contact us to arrange an appointment, your dentist can explain your anticipated cost for a restoration after your exam.

What Are the Available Tooth Filling Materials?

Composite fillings, which are tooth-colored, are a popular choice with patients who need a filling in a tooth that shows when they smile. Composite resin fillings don’t last as long as amalgam (metal) fillings, but amalgam fillings are highly visible in the mouth. Amalgam fillings are also economical. Porcelain and gold fillings, which are not very common, are also available. If you believe you have a cavity, please call us for an appointment. Your dentist will go over your options in detail with you.

What Are Dental Caps (Crowns) Made From?

Your dentist can suggest dental crowns in different materials, including gold alloy, all porcelain or porcelain-fused-to-metal. When your dentist makes a recommendation, he or she will take into account the tooth’s location, its condition, your budget, your gum health and whether you have any metal sensitivities. If you need a crown, please call our office to set up an appointment with one of our skilled dentists.

What Are the Different Types of Bridges?

The most common bridge is a traditional fixed bridge with a crown on each end and one or two artificial teeth in between the crowns. Traditional bridges need a healthy tooth on each side of the gap to hold the bridge. Cantilever bridges only utilize one tooth to support the bridge; cantilever bridges will not work for back teeth. If you are missing several teeth in a row, ask your dentist about an implant-supported bridge, which does not need an adjacent tooth for support.

What Is It Like to Get a Tooth Crown?

The process isn’t painful. First, your dentist will make a mold of your teeth for the dental lab to use to fabricate your custom crown. Next, you’ll receive a local anesthetic before your dentist reduces and shapes your tooth for the crown. To protect the tooth, you’ll receive a temporary crown to wear until your second visit. During your second appointment, your dentist will check your final crown for a good fit before permanently cementing it into place.

What Is It Like to Get a Tooth Bridge?

Getting a bridge is also relatively painless although your dentist will have to reduce and shape two teeth for crowns instead of one. Otherwise, the procedure is nearly the same, with you wearing a temporary appliance until the dental lab completes your custom bridge. If you would like more information about replacing a tooth with a bridge, please call us to request a consultation.