Fillings, Crowns, and Bridges in McLean

What Are Dental Fillings?

A filling fills a hole in your tooth caused by decay. Your dentist will remove any decay present and then fill the hole with material that will keep out bacteria and bits of food that can cause more decay. Getting a filling is very common; most people have at least one in their mouth.

What Is a Tooth Crown and a Tooth Bridge?

Crowns are also known as dental caps. The completely cover a weak or broken tooth, making it whole and strong again. They can also cover discolored teeth to improve their appearance. Bridges replace one or two adjacent missing teeth with pontics or artificial teeth. The bridge attaches to crowns placed on the neighboring teeth to bridge the gap the missing teeth created.

Which Dentists offer Tooth Restorations?

Your general dentist in McLean is the person to see if you need a cavity filled, a crown, or a bridge. At our office, we’re ready to help you make your smile whole again.

What Will a Bridge or Dental Crown Cost?

These are custom restorations, so the cost will vary. Your fee will depend on the materials used and with bridges, your dental bridge cost depends on how many teeth you’re replacing. Your tooth filling cost will also depend on the type of filling material used. If you have dental insurance, we can help you figure out your out-of-pocket cost. We urge you to ask for an estimate before we begin any work.

What Is a Tooth Filling Made From?

There are amalgam ones, the typical silver-colored metal, that are the most traditional. This is the strongest material, but it’s unsightly on front teeth. You can also choose from tooth colored composite resin, which does not last as long, but it’s nearly invisible. Some individuals also opt for an ultra-strong gold alloy filling material.

What Material Are Crowns for Teeth Made From?

Porcelain crowns are translucent and look just like real teeth. Unfortunately, they are not strong enough to stand up to excessive chewing force, so your dentist will probably only recommend them for front teeth. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are stronger, and still natural looking, and they can be used anywhere. Gold alloy crowns are very strong, and they are ideal for molars.

Are There Different Bridges?

A conventional bridge uses crowns for support and bridges a gap where there are one or two missing teeth. It works best when there are healthy teeth on either side of the gap. Cantilever dental bridges are used when there is only one healthy tooth to support the bridge. They are not suitable for back teeth. Your dentist can explain what is your best option. You can also get an implant supported bridge which isn't supported by adjacent teeth. Instead it is supported by dental implants.

How Do Dentists Place a Tooth Crown?

Getting a crown can usually be done in two visits to your dentist. First, your dentist will shave down your tooth with a local anesthetic to make sure the crown is flush with your other teeth. Next, he or she will take an impression so the crown looks just like your other teeth. A color match is also done. Next, after the dental lab makes the crown, you’ll return to make sure the crown fits correctly. If it does, it is cemented in place. In the meantime, you may get a temporary crown to wear.

 How Do Dentists Place a Tooth Bridge?

Since bridges use abutment teeth as anchors, these teeth are shaped for the crowns on either side of the bridge. Next, impressions are taken so the dental lab can fabricate a natural-looking bridge. A color sample is also taken at this point. Some patients receive a temporary bridge, which is usually made of composite resin to protect the shaped teeth. This is later removed when the permanent bridge is ready.

If you need a tooth filling, crown or bridge, please call our dental office in McLean for an appointment.