Fillings, Crowns & Bridges

The Basics of Dental Fillings

A tooth filling is usually required when tooth decay has made a hole in the enamel that surrounds and protects the interior of the tooth. In general, your dentist will clean out any damaged or infected material from inside the tooth and then use a tooth filling material like gold, porcelain, composite or amalgam to fill the hole left behind and to seal off the damaged area.

What Are Dental Crowns and Tooth Bridges?

If one of your teeth has been damaged in an accident or by tooth decay, your dentist may recommend a tooth crown to provide a protective shell over your broken or damaged tooth. Dental crowns are often referred to as dental caps because they fit tightly over teeth to hold them together and to prevent them from sustaining damage from the pressure of biting or chewing.

Not unlike bridges in the transportation field, dental bridges fill in gaps between teeth to help you achieve a better bite and a more attractive smile. A tooth bridge can be designed to replace just one tooth or a row of adjacent or near-adjacent teeth.

How Much Does a Filling, Crown or Dental Bridge Cost?

Your tooth filling cost will vary depending on which type of material you choose. Our dental team will work with you to determine which of your available options is the most affordable and practical choice for your teeth.

Fillings typically can be applied in a single appointment in our office. Our dentists will discuss your options and treatment plan with you to make sure you understand the services we will provide and the benefits of regular dental care for you and your entire family.

We can also provide you with support in managing filling, crown and dental bridge costs and in ensuring that your treatment in our office is as affordable as possible. We accept most dental plans and participate in dental discount programs as part of our ongoing efforts to keep your costs as low as possible.

What Are the Different Types of Fillings?

In general, amalgam is the least expensive and most common material used for tooth fillings. Composite materials are often used for visible teeth because they look more like the natural tooth enamel they replace. However, your dentist can work with you to determine which is right for you.

What Are the Different Types of Crowns?

Like fillings, crowns for teeth are available in a variety of different materials. Ceramic and porcelain-fused-metal crowns are among the most popular choices for teeth that will be visible when you eat or smile. For back teeth, a gold tooth crown may offer added protection while allowing you to feel more comfortable about your appearance. Our dental team will work with you throughout the process to discuss the most practical and attractive choices for you and ways to manage dental crown cost more effectively.

What Are the Different Types of Tooth Bridge?

Bridges can be removable or permanently attached to implants or other teeth. You can choose from cantilever or traditional bridges:

• Traditional bridges require that crowns be applied to the teeth adjacent to the gap. The bridge will then fit into this spot and attach to the crowns to provide a permanent replacement for the missing teeth.

• Cantilever bridges work by creating pressure that holds the bridge in place between other teeth on both sides. These bridges cannot usually be used in the very back part of the jaw.

What Is the Dental Bridge Procedure Like?

Our team will discuss the different options available to you when replacing missing teeth. You will usually need at least two appointments with our office for these procedures. During the first appointment, we will take molds of your teeth and will help you to select the right shade for your new replacement teeth. Your bridge will be fitted and attached during the second appointment in our office.

What Is the Dental Crown Procedure Like?

Your dentist will usually need two appointments to complete your crown. During the first appointment, impressions will be taken of your tooth to make sure that your crown fits perfectly. Your tooth may also be reshaped to help it accept and hold the crown more snugly. A temporary crown will usually be applied to protect the tooth during the period between this first appointment and the time when your permanent crown can be placed.

Our Commitment to Quality Dental Care in Gainesville

Whether you need fillings, bridges or crowns, Tioga Dental at Celebration Pointe can provide you with the practical and affordable help you need to manage your dental care effectively. We offer dental services designed for the whole family. If you are looking for a new home for all your dental care, give us a call today at (352) 389-4386 to schedule an appointment. We look forward to the opportunity to serve you.