Tooth Fillings

What are fillings?

Teeth that have been affected by tooth decay (caries or cavities) require a filling. There are many different types of fillings, including:

— Composite resins

      Also know as white fillings, a composite resin is a tooth-colored plastic

      mixture filled with glass (silicon dioxide) that is used primarily for

      cosmetic improvements of the smile by changing the color of the teeth or

      reshaping disfigured teeth.

Other alternatives to restoring damaged

or decayed teeth:

—  porcelain veneers - a ceramic material is bonded to the front of teeth to

      change the tooth's color, size, and/or shape.

—  crown - a "cap" that covers a cracked or broken tooth, unfixed by a

      filling to approximate its normal size and shape.

Crowns

What is a dental bridge?

For teeth that are badly damaged, dental crowns can be an effective treatment option. The dental crown procedure utilizes tooth-shaped coverings made of metal, ceramic, or porcelain to restore strength and eliminate discomfort. In addition, dental crowns may be used to anchor a dental bridge or to cap a dental implant post.

Types of Dental Crowns

Dental crowns are made of metal, ceramic, or porcelain fused to metal. The type of crown utilized during your dental cr own proced ure will depend on your unique needs and goals, as well as the recommendation of your dentist.

Metal Crowns

Although their metallic color makes them a poor choice for highly visible teeth, dental crowns made of metal can be an ideal option for repairing decayed or damaged back teeth. They are extremely durable and can be applied with less removal of the natural tooth than all porcelain or ceramic crowns. Metal crowns may consist of various materials, including gold alloy, palladium, nickel alloy, or chromium alloy.

All Ceramic Crowns

All ceramic crowns may be made of porcelain, resins, or dental ceramic materials. They create an extremely natural-looking appearance and are typically used on front teeth. The tooth-colored ceramic materi al is translucent, like the enamel of your natural teeth, and size and shade can be carefully matched to complement the rest of your smile. However, ceramic dental crowns are not as resilient as metal crowns and do not function as well on back teeth, which sustain a lot of pressure from biting and chewing.

Porcelain Crowns

Dental crowns made of porcelain fused to metal are stronger than all-ceramic versions and more aesthetically pleasing than those made of metal. However, their metal shell gives porcelain fused to metal crowns an opaque appearance. Because they lack the reflective quality of natural teeth, porcelain fused to metal crowns are not as discreet as all ceramic crowns. Additionally, over time, a thin metal band may be visible along the gum line with this type of crown.

The Dental Crown Procedure

Typically, the dental crown procedure is completed in two stages. During the first stage, the dentist removes portions of your natural tooth’s structure to accommodate the dental crown. Surrounding teeth may also be prepared in this way. An impression is made a nd sent to the lab, where your dental crown is created in about two weeks. A temporary crown will be in place between visits to ensure the most natural look and feel. When you return to the dentist’s office, the temporary crown is removed and your new, custom dental crown is securely bonded in place. For some patients, the dental crown procedure is altered to meet specific goals. For example, if crowns are being utilized to anchor a dental bridge or as a dental implant restoration, the steps in the dental crown procedure will be slightly different. Also, teeth with extensive damage may require that a root canal be performed prior to placing the crown. Additionally, new technology has made it possible to complete some dental crown procedures in a single office visit. A consultation with your dentist can help you better understand the unique steps in your dental crown procedure.

Replacing Old Dental Crowns

Individuals may be interested in replacing old dental crowns for a number of reasons. Concerns about the appearance of metal crowns on prominent teeth may compel some patients to have their dental work restored with all ceramic or porcelain crowns. Other times, dental crown problems like wear, decay, or poor fit may lead patients to inquire about replacing older dental crowns. Typically, patients should expect to replace their dental crowns after approximately 10 to 15 years.

Porcelain Crowns vs. Porcelain Veneers

Both porcelain crowns and porcelain veneers have unique advantages and limitations that make them appropriate for treating specific dental concerns. For example, all ceramic or porcelain dental crowns improve both the appearance and function of injured or damaged teeth. They cover and protect the entire surface area of the tooth, eli minating pain and restoring strength. Porcelain veneers http://www.docshop.com/education/dental/cosmetic-dentistry/porcelain-veneers/, on the other hand, typically address only cosmetic concerns and are applied to otherwise healthy teeth. Stains, minor chips, misalignment, or other imperfections can be concealed with the thin porcelain shells, which slide over the front surface of teeth. Also, because they cover less of the natural tooth, less tooth structure has to be removed to accommodate porcelain veneers. A dentist can provide more inform ation on porcelain crowns versus porcelain veneers and help determine which treatment is best for you based on cost and your unique goals and needs.

What is the Average Cost of Dental Crowns?

The average cost of a dental crown varies. Often, the type of dental crown plays the most significant role in determining its price. For example, all ceramic or porcelain crowns tend to cost more than other types of dental crowns because they=2 0are more time-consuming and require greater skill to be applied correctly. Additionally, because all porcelain crowns provide the most natural appearance, they typically cost more than porcelain fused to metal or all metal crowns. Most doctors offer cosmetic dentistry financing to make the dental crown procedure more affordable for patients.