Do you have an aching tooth? If so, this may be a warning sign of a cavity, which means your tooth has become damaged or decayed. In order to address the issue you need a dental restoration. We offer two different options for restoring the health and function of a tooth. Do you need a filling or a crown?
Dental Fillings
Unlike those of the past, these are made without metal. That means the fillings are safe for patients of all ages and that they can blend with the tooth structure. We use them for treating cavities and in dental bonding procedures to repair chipped teeth or close gaps between teeth. The process involves removing the decay from the teeth and placing the composite filling material. The material will be cured with a special light, completing the procedure in a single visit.
Dental Crowns
For more serious cases of decay, or if a tooth is damaged by injury, we may place a crown. The restoration fits over the visible parts of the tooth. We first prepare the tooth by removing a small amount of structure and taking impressions of the tooth. The restoration will be created and placed with a powerful bonding agent, the entire procedure taking about two visits. We use a variety of materials. For the teeth near the front we use porcelain because the material mimics the appearance of natural tooth enamel. Teeth near the back of the mouth must endure more powerful bite forces, which is why the doctor may recommend porcelain-fused-to-metal or possibly zirconia.
Which One Best Address Your Smile Issues?
That will depend on the cause and extent of the issues with your teeth. We will carefully examine your smile to decide which restoration will best improve the health and function of your teeth. If you have any questions or concerns about our approach to dental restorations then please contact our office today.
