Dental Fillings, Crowns & Bridges in Fredericksburg

What's a Tooth Filling?

A tooth filling replaces the damaged part of the tooth with silver amalgam, resin, gold, porcelain, or other substances, depending on the location of the tooth and the patient's preference. The decayed or damaged part is removed, then the tooth is cleaned, and then the cavity is filled. This restores the tooth's functionality and prevents further damage.

What Are Dental Bridges and Crowns?

Both bridges and crowns are dental prosthetic devices used to repair or replace damaged teeth. They're attached to the teeth using a high-bond dental cement, and only a dentist can remove them. A tooth crown, often called a cap, covers the entire tooth and is often used when a tooth needs a very large filling. A bridge replaces one or more missing teeth using a row of pontic teeth attached to abutment teeth or implants on either side.

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

Your local dentist can provide these types of dental prosthetics. If you have a complex requirement, you may be referred to an orthodontist, but generally, these devices are considered general dentistry.

How Much Is the Crown, Bridge, and Tooth Filling Cost?

Since these dental appliances are customized to the individual, the cost of each can vary significantly. Factors that influence the ultimate bridge, filling, or dental crown cost include the materials used, the location of the tooth, and your insurance coverage. We recommend that you speak to your provider before your initial appointment to determine the scope of your plan, its limitations, and any copays. Bring that information with you, and we'll help you maximize your benefits. We'll also provide a comprehensive estimate of the cost of your procedure, and it won't include any surprises.

Are There Different Types of Tooth Fillings?

Tooth fillings are available in a variety of materials, and some are designed to blend in with your natural teeth. Some of our most popular filling materials include amalgam, gold, porcelain, and tooth-colored composite. Not all materials are suitable for all types of fillings, but your Fredericksburg dentist will help you select the best type for your needs and lifestyle.

What Are the Different Types of Crowns?

Like tooth fillings, crowns are available in a variety of materials, including ceramic, gold alloy, and porcelain-fused-to-metal. Ceramic is often used for front teeth, and gold crowns may be recommended for the back teeth due to the greater strength required.

What Are the Different Types of Bridges?

We offer several types of bridges. Some involve fabricating a crown for a tooth or implant and placing a row of pontic teeth between. Sometimes, we need a cantilever bridge if there are adjacent teeth on only one side. But cantilever bridges are not recommended for rear teeth.

What to Expect When Getting a Tooth Crown

There are two steps to getting a dental crown. During your initial visit, your dentist will prep the area, which involves shaping and preparing the tooth, then making an impression of it. An impression is necessary for us to fabricate the permanent crown. We'll provide you with a temporary crown to wear until your permanent one is ready. Each of these steps takes about a half hour.

What's Involved in Getting a Tooth Bridge?

Getting a tooth bridge involves at least two appointments. During your initial visit, your Fredericksburg dentist will prepare the abutment teeth by removing a very small layer of tooth enamel, usually 1-2mm. Then we'll take impressions of the teeth and use them to model your bridge and crown. We'll provide you with a temporary bridge to wear until your permanent bridge is ready.

At your second visit, we'll place the permanent bridge and adjust it for fit and comfort. At this point, your crown and permanent bridge will be completed. If you experience any discomfort or have any questions, call (540) 642-0401, and we can help you. Usually, a third office visit is unnecessary, but we want you to be comfortable, so don't hesitate to call if you need to.

If you need bridges, crowns, or fillings in Fredericksburg, call VA Smiles North Fredericksburg and let us help you. We're among the best in the area, and we're sure you'll be happy with our service.