Fillings Crowns and Bridges
Fillings, Crowns, and Bridges are an Affordable Option for Dental Restoration
Fillings, bridges, and crowns restore the look and function of your smile. We offer a range of dental restoration services that help you improve your dental health and get a smile you love. If you’d like to learn more, give us a call to discuss your options.
What Do Dental Fillings Do?
People get fillings to treat cavities, but there are other reasons why fillings are used, too. Fillings are put in teeth to repair decay. They are also used to reinforce and reshape teeth with wear and damage from grinding or trauma.
The process of filling a tooth is simple and relatively pain-free. We use local anesthetic to numb the affected area and remove the damaged portion of the tooth. This is usually called “drilling.”
Once the decay is removed, we fill the hole with metal or composite material that protects and strengthens the tooth and prevents further decay.
What Material Do You Use to Fill a Tooth?
In the past, metal fillings were most common. Modern-day fillings come in a variety of different materials, including porcelain, composite, and traditional amalgam.
When deciding which type of filling will work best for you, it’s important to consider cost, location of the filling, and what your insurance is willing to cover. In some cases, insurance covers the cost of the functional filling, but won’t cover more expensive materials used for aesthetic purposes. We’ll help you choose the best option based on your needs.
How Much Does It Cost to Have a Tooth Filled?
The cost of a filling varies based on the location of the filling and the material used. For example, gold fillings cost more than amalgam fillings. We can provide you with estimates for a variety of different filling materials so you can make the best choice for you.
What Issues Do Crowns and Bridges Repair?
Crowns and bridges are used to replace, reinforce, and improve badly damaged or missing teeth. Both are permanently affixed to your tooth. They might fall out or your dentist can remove them, but they typically remain in place for many years.
Crowns cover the entire tooth. They are most often used when decay affects a large portion of the tooth and a filling is not enough to protect the tooth and root. A bridge is a row of artificial teeth that are anchored into implants that are surgically placed in the jaw bone. It is used to replace one or more missing teeth.
What Material Do You Use to Make a Dental Crown?
Crowns are made from a variety of materials, including ceramic, porcelain, and gold alloy. We can help you choose the best type of crown based on your dental needs and your budget.
What Occurs During the Placement of a Tooth Crown?
Getting a crown is a two-step process, so you’ll visit our office twice.
In the first visit, we take an impression of the affect tooth and prep the tooth by removing some of the enamel. This ensures the crown fits properly. Most people get a temporary crown until their permanent crown is ready.
Once your crown is made, you’ll return and we’ll cement it into place. Both appointments usually take less than an hour to complete.
How Much Does a Crown Cost?
The cost of the crown varies from person to person. It depends on the material used and the location of the crown. We’ll provide you with an estimate of the cost after your initial consultation.
Are There Different Types of Dental Bridges?
Dental bridges come in three different styles:
- Traditional: attach to healthy teeth on both sides
- Implant-supported: attach to an implant embedded in the jaw
- Cantilevered: attach to one side and usually used when teeth are unhealthy on one of the sides of the affected area
What Occurs During the Placement of a Dental Bridge?
Getting a bridge is a two-step process, so you’ll visit our office twice.
In the first visit, we prep your teeth by removing some of the enamel. We make a mold of your teeth which is used to design the bridge. You’ll leave with a temporary bridge that you can wear until the permanent one is put in place.
At the second appointment, we’ll attach the permanent bridge and make any needed adjustments so it’s comfortable and functions as it should.
How Much Does a Bridge Cost?
Bridges are custom-designed for each patient, so the cost varies a great deal. We’ll provide you with a cost estimate before we begin the procedure.
How Can I Schedule a Consultation for a Filling, Bridge, or Crown?
We want to help you get a smile you love. For more information about bridges, crowns, or fillings, give us a call.