Fillings, Crowns & Bridges in Virginia Beach, VA

What Are Fillings?

When dentists treat dental decay (cavities), they will fill the hole with a filling material to prevent further decay and to restore the structure of the tooth. It’s important to have a cavity filled as soon as possible. If you believe that you have a cavity, call us to schedule an exam by our dentist.

Dental Inlays-Onlays

Are you looking for a natural, durable way to repair a decayed tooth? While most patients are familiar with crowns and fillings, many do not realize that there is another effective, affordable option. Dental inlays and onlays are long-lasting, natural looking appliances that can restore your tooth to its normal function.

Dentists recommend inlays and onlays if 50 percent or more of the tooth’s biting area is damaged or decayed. Inlays and onlays are fabricated with composite resin, porcelain, or gold. While gold inlays and onlays are visible in the mouth, porcelain inlays and onlays can be matched to your natural teeth. An inlay is used to fill the smaller cusp tips of a damaged tooth while an onlay extends out over one or more of the tooth’s cusps.

Dental inlays and onlays are a popular option among our patients due to their durability and natural look. These appliances can be used to replace existing fillings or a repair a tooth that isn’t damaged enough for a crown. Learn more about this restorative treatment by contacting our office today.

The Dental Inlays-Onlays Procedure: What to Expect

Usually, two appointments are necessary to complete the inlays-onlays procedure. At your first visit, our dentist will assess the damaged tooth and remove the existing filling or decay. An impression of the tooth will be made, then sent to the lab that fabricates the final inlay or onlay. A sealant will be added to the tooth, which will remain in place until your next appointment. When you return for your second appointment, the sealant will be removed and the final inlay or onlay will be placed. The dentist will check the appliance for the correct fit and make any necessary adjustments before bonding it to the tooth using resin. The inlay or onlay will be polished to create a smooth look.

What Are the Advantages of Dental Inlays and Onlays?

While fillings are still a popular choice for treating cavities, they can often result in the weakening of the tooth. A traditional filling can lessen the strength of a tooth by 50 percent while an inlay or onlay can reinforce the tooth’s strength by up to 75 percent. They are bonded directly to the tooth for superior resiliency and longevity, and the secure bond keeps the tooth protected against debris and decay. Dental inlays and onlays often last for decades with proper oral hygiene. If you need to replace a filling or have a cavity, we can help. Contact us now to find out whether the inlays-onlays procedure is right for you.

What Are Dental Bridges and Dental Crowns?

Both are fixed restorations that restore smiles. A tooth bridge consists of an artificial tooth, called a pontic, held in place by two crowns on the adjacent teeth. A tooth crown is an artificial tooth that caps a natural tooth that is broken, has a very large filling or is permanently discolored.

What Type of Dentist Do I Need to Visit for Dental Caps and Bridges?

Our dentist can place caps and bridges, so you can have the restorations done here, in the comfort of your family dentist’s office.

What Do Dental Fillings, Crowns for Teeth or a Dental Bridge Cost?

The materials that you choose will affect your tooth filling cost, as well as the cost for your crown or your tooth bridge cost. Other factors also affect the cost, including whether your bridge replaces one or two teeth. Our dentist will give you an estimate of our fees after discussing the procedure and your options. If you have dental insurance, please let us know.

Which is the Best Tooth Filling Material?

There are amalgam, or metal fillings, and composite resin fillings that resemble the natural tooth color. Dentists may use other materials at their patient’s request, such as gold or porcelain. Our dentist will explain your options and help you choose the best tooth filling material based on your preferences for durability, cost and appearance.

White Composite Fillings

Tooth fillings are an effective way to restore decayed teeth, but some filling materials are visible when you smile. If you’re looking for a discreet way to repair your teeth, visit our practice to find out if white composite fillings are right for you. Composite fillings can be matched to your natural teeth, and they are unnoticeable when worn. Plus, composite fillings set quickly, allowing you to eat and drink right after your appointment. You can choose composite material when undergoing the filling procedure, or you can replace your existing amalgam fillings for cosmetic purposes.

The type of filling you receive will depend on your unique needs. Teeth that require small fillings typically are ideal for composite material. Composite fillings also are recommended for teeth that receive mild pressure for chewing. During your exam, the dentist will assess the affected tooth and determine whether a composite filling will restore your smile.

No matter what filling material you choose, know that they are not designed to last a lifetime. Composite fillings usually need to be replaced every five years. Of course, the longevity of your filling will depend on its size and location. If you have any questions regarding the tooth filling procedure or cost, give us a call for more information.

How Many Materials Can be Used to Create a Tooth Crown?

Porcelain-fused-to-metal crowns are the most popular crowns because of their durability and reasonable dental crown cost. Ceramic crowns have more aesthetic appeal, but they are less durable, and not suitable for certain locations in your mouth. The strongest crown material is gold alloy, which is also the most expensive crown material.

How is a Dental Crown Attached to a Tooth?

The crown procedure is straightforward. Our dentist files the tooth to make room for the crown to go over it and makes an impression so the dental lab can construct a natural looking crown. You’ll go home from the first appointment with a temporary crown and then you will return for the permanent crown placement.

How Do I Choose Between the Different Types of Bridges?

There are three types of bridges; fixed traditional, cantilever and implant supported. A traditional bridge has a prosthetic tooth attached to a crown on either each side of the artificial tooth. If only one adjacent tooth is available, our dentist may suggest a cantilever bridge. An implant-supported bridge does not need crowns for support, so the adjacent teeth are not altered.

How is a Dental Bridge Put on Teeth?

Since a traditional bridge is supported by a crown on the two surrounding teeth, or in the case of a bridge for a missing front tooth, two crowns on either side, the procedure is very similar to a crown placement. Bridges also require two dental appointments and you will leave your first appointment with a temporary restoration.

If you are interested in a filling, a crown or a bridge, please give us a call for schedule a consultation with our dentist.