Benefits of using fillings with composite resin:
Flexible
Because composite resin is a flexible material, this allows Dr. Huriega to mold the repair to duplicate the shape of the tooth prior to the removal of decay.
Customize Color
The material used in a dental composite can be color matched to your surrounding teeth. The use of composite resin also allows much less of the tooth to be removed to repair dental decay.
Sensitive
Composite resin is placed on the tooth in stages. Dr. Huriega will harden the filling with each stage which will aid in a decrease in sensitivity.
Strong and Durable
The material used in composite fillings offers strength and durability to the treated tooth.
Dental Repair
In addition to repairing dental decay, the composite material may also be used for dental bonding to repair a chipped or cracked tooth.
Cosmetic enhancements
There are cosmetic enhancements available with composite resin such as placing on stained teeth or closing an unsightly gap between teeth.
Crowns
A crown is a tooth-shaped shell that covers a damaged tooth to restore form and function. All-porcelain crowns look like natural teeth and blend seamlessly into smiles. The porcelain covering acts a barrier against further damage and extends the life of your tooth.
Crowns are often referred to as a cap, the crown is fabricated from metal, gold, or porcelain. An impression is used as a guide for the dental lab with shading instructions provided by us. The tooth is prepared by cutting it down, but leaving the base of the tooth intact providing a means to attach the crown. A temporary cover is placed over the prepared tooth until the final restoration is made, usually about two weeks. On your seat day, we will try in the crown. Minor adjustments can be made at that time so the fit and appearance are correct.
Dental crowns are suitable for:
A cracked or broken tooth
A tooth that is broken or cracked can be saved by being covered with a dental crown.
Decayed tooth
When a tooth has previously been treated for a cavity, additional decay can result in damage that could break the tooth. Instead of trying to fill further decay, a crown can be placed salvaging the tooth.
Anchoring a dental bridge
If tooth loss is inevitable, a bridge can be permanently fixed by placing crowns on the abutment teeth with a false tooth in between (called a pontic). The bridge restores the ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
Completing endodontic therapy
A root canal is needed when the nerve of a tooth is damaged or becomes infected. The tooth is opened, and the contents of the root canals are removed. When completed, the tooth access point must be sealed. A composite filling may be used, but very often a dental crown is needed to seal the access point.
Covering a dental implant
Tooth loss can be restored to the closest thing to your biological tooth with a dental implant. The implant itself is made from titanium, and is placed in gum tissue where tooth loss has occurred. Bone in gum tissue fuses to the implant providing the strength and stability to support the restoration. After the implant area has healed, a dental crown that matches surrounding dentition is permanently placed to complete treatment.
Care for your tooth-colored restoration as you would your natural teeth, with twice daily brushing, daily flossing, and regular preventive visits to Aesthetic Dental Partners. If you grind your teeth, tell us. A custom-fitted nightguard can alleviate this condition and prevent damage to your dental work.
Call today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Huriega at Aesthetic Dental Partners. We provide comprehensive, personalized dental care for residents of San Antonio and surrounding areas.
Articles addressing common questions about Crowns