Fillings, crowns, & bridges in Largo

What Are Dental Fillings?

Also known as a tooth filling, a dental filling is a substance that is used to repair a tooth that is damaged by decay. Before a filling is placed, the dentist will remove the decayed portion of the tooth, clean it out, and then fill it with a material that will bring the tooth back to its normal shape and function. The filling assists in protecting the tooth from becoming further decayed and damaged.

What Are Tooth Crowns and Bridges?

Tooth crowns and bridges are permanent prosthetic devices that are attached to the teeth with high-bond dental cement. A tooth crown is placed over the top of a tooth that is damaged by injury or decay. Crowns are commonly called dental caps. A tooth bridge is a device that is built with a row of pontic teeth that attach to abutment teeth.

What Kind of Dentist Provides Tooth Fillings, Crowns, and Bridges?

A general dentist can place fillings, crowns, and bridges. Before any type of dental work is done, your dentist will have to look at your teeth, gums, and mouth. After your examination, the dentist will talk to you about what the best treatment options for you are.

Are Fillings, Crowns, and Bridges Affordable?

Due to the fact that fillings, crowns and bridges are customized treatments, the total cost of treatment will vary from person to person. Some of the factors that determine how much treatment will cost are the type of materials used, where in the mouth the necessary restoration work is located and whether or not you currently have dental insurance. Your dentist will give you an accurate estimate of your total tooth filling cost, dental bridge cost, or dental crown cost after he or she has conducted a thorough examination.

Can You Tell Me About the Different Types of Tooth Fillings?

There are many different types of materials that a tooth filling can be comprised of. There are even materials utilized that can match the color of your natural teeth. Tooth-colored composite, porcelain, gold, and silver amalgam are some of the most popular types of fillings. Your dentist will tell you what type of filling is the best one for you and your needs.

Can You Tell Me About the Different Types of Tooth Crowns?

In addition to there being different kinds of fillings, there are also different types of crowns for teeth available. The most popular materials utilized for crowns are porcelain fused to metal, ceramic and gold alloy. Due to their strength, gold crowns are usually placed over the back teeth, while ceramic crowns that match the look of your teeth can be used for the front teeth.

Can You Tell Me About the Different Types of Dental Bridges?

There are many different kinds of tooth bridges available at our practice. Traditional bridges are fabricated with a crown that is made for an implant or abutting teeth, with a row of pontic teeth that fills the gap created by the missing tooth or teeth. 

What Happens During a Tooth Crown Procedure?

There are three steps to the process of receiving a dental crown. The first step consists of your dentist working to shape and prepare the affected tooth so that it can be crowned. At this point in time, your dentist will make an impression of the tooth. This will be used to create a customized crown. The second step is the placement of a temporary crown. You will need to wear this until your permanent crown is created. The third step consists of your dentist cementing your custom-made crown into place over the tooth. You can expect each portion of the dental crown procedure to take around 30 minutes to an hour to complete.

What Happens During a Tooth Bridge Procedure?

It usually takes two appointments with your dentist to have a bridge placed. The first visit is where your dentist will take off a tiny portion of enamel from the teeth on either side of the gap created by your missing tooth or teeth. A mold will then be made so that your bridge and crowns can be created. You will wear a temporary bridge until the permanent one is made. Your second visit consists of your dentist placing the bridge and ensuring that it fits comfortably.