Fillings, crowns & bridges in Belchertown, MA

What Is a Tooth Filling?

A temporary filling is an interim measure that will restore tooth function until a permanent dental appliance such as a crown or bridge can be fabricated. Usually, temporary fillings have a lifespan of about a month.

Permanent fillings are available in a variety of materials including gold, amalgam, composite resin, and porcelain.

What Are Dental Crowns and Tooth Bridges?

A dental crown is often referred to as a cap, and it’s used to restore the appearance of a tooth as well as its functionality; a crown can be installed onto a natural tooth or an implant. When installed, the crown covers the entire surface of the tooth down to the gum line. Installation consists of cementing the crown to the tooth.

What Kind of Dentist Does Fillings, Crowns, and Bridges?

Many general dentists do fillings, crowns, and bridges. If your dentist in Belchertown determines that you need work outside his or her area of expertise, then you’ll be referred to a specialist.

How Much Does A Filling, Bridge, Or Dental Crown Cost?

The cost of a tooth filling, dental caps, a dental bridge, or crowns for teeth in Belchertown can vary by individual dentist, and what type of material you select. We cannot provide an estimate without first understanding your exact situation, please call our office to schedule a dental exam and we will be able to give you an estimate.

Different Types of Tooth Fillings

Dentists can use different types of tooth fillings, depending on the client’s preferences and his or her unique circumstances. Amalgam fillings are the oldest and most often used type of filling. They’re comprised of a variety of metals and are the most cost effective. Your dentist will work with you to find the best type of filling for your needs, so make time to visit your dentist, so that you keep your healthy smile.

Composite fillings are usually made of acrylic resin and powdered glass and can be easily matched to the existing teeth. However, composite fillings are less durable than amalgam so they may not be appropriate for all teeth.

Porcelain fillings usually require multiple visits to the dentist and are more expensive than amalgam fillings. Porcelain however, is the most natural looking option available so it’s very popular for that reason.

Gold fillings are one of the costliest fillings available and will require more than one visit to the dentist.

Specialty fillings are available for children who need dental fillings. It’s very important for your child to receive proper dental treatment.

Different Types Of Crowns

Dental crowns are available in four types.

1. Ceramic crowns are generally used for front tooth restoration because they can be matched to your tooth color. Ceramic crowns have a porcelain base.
2. Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are more durable than porcelain crowns.
3. Base metal-alloy crowns yield a very strong crown that resists corrosion and necessitates the least removal of the healthy tooth.
4. Gold alloy crowns are a combination of gold and other metals, such as copper.

Different Types of Dental Bridges

Your dentist may recommend one of four types of bridges, depending on your unique needs.

1. A traditional bridge can be used if you have a gap between teeth. It will provide the structural support that the missing tooth would have provided but requires removing a significant amount of the enamel on the adjacent teeth.
2. A cantilever bridge is similar to a traditional bridge but requires support on only one side. This can cause a problem due to lack of bilateral support.
3. An implant-supported bridge is similar to a traditional bridge but it is supported by dental implants rather than framework or crowns.

Dental Crown Procedure

Getting a tooth crown will usually require two or more visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the tooth will be examined, measured, and impressions will be taken. A temporary crown will be installed and the permanent crown will be ordered.

During the second visit, the temporary crown will be removed. The permanent tooth crown will be installed and fitted for optimal comfort. Don’t delay calling your dentist if you need dental care.

Dental Bridge Procedure

The dental bridge procedure is the same as the dental crown procedure, the type of dental appliance is the only difference. You’ll need at least two visits to the dentist for a tooth bridge and you may need an additional follow-up visit to ensure that your tooth bridge is placed comfortably.