If you’re missing a tooth or you have cracked, chipped, or otherwise damaged teeth, you may want to consider a restorative dentistry technique such as a filling, crown, or bridge. These cutting-edge treatments can restore the physical appearance of your smile, while improving the strength and function of your teeth. At Brite Smile Dental, with two locations in San Diego, including the Sorrento Valley area, our professional and best dentist in San Diego regularly uses crowns, bridges, and fillings to help their patients look and feel their best. Request your consultation today by calling the offices or clicking the online booking tool.
What is a filling?
If you chip or crack a tooth or develop a cavity, the team might recommend a filling. In order to treat a cavity, your dentist removes the decayed portion of your tooth and fills the hole. At Brite Smile Dental, the team uses metal-free nanotechnology resin (composite) fillings that mimic the color and light-reflecting properties of your natural tooth enamel.
What is a dental crown?
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped covering that envelops a cracked, chipped, or decaying tooth to prevent further damage. Once placed, a dental crown covers the entire portion of your tooth that sits above your gum line.
Prior to placing a crown, your dentist takes an impression of your affected tooth and sends it to a dental laboratory for manufacturing. The lab creates a crown that provides a comfortable, custom fit and a color that blends in beautifully with your natural teeth.
What is a dental bridge?
A dental bridge is an oral prosthetic used to fill a gap in your smile caused by one or multiple missing teeth. Bridges aren’t surgically affixed to your jawbone like dental implants. Instead, they’re supported by crowns attached to your adjacent teeth. The team at Brite Smile Dental proudly offer metal-free ceramic bridges that are both durable and long lasting. With proper oral hygiene, a dental bridge can last 10-15 years.
What type of restorative treatment is right for me?
To determine which type of restorative treatment is best for you, schedule an appointment with the professionals cosmetics dentist san deigo at Brite Smile Dental. Following an oral exam, review of your medical history, and discussion of your aesthetic goals, the team formulates a treatment plan that aligns with your unique situation.
If your tooth only has minor damage, the team might recommend a filling. However, if you’re suffering from severe decay, or you’re missing a tooth entirely, they might recommend a crown or bridge.
How do I take care of my filling, crown, or bridge?
Caring for crowns, bridges, and fillings is easy and hassle free. Brush twice a day, floss once each day, and visit Brite Smile Dental every six months for a professional cleaning and exam. You should also avoid bad habits like biting your fingernails or chewing on ice, as both increase your risk of further damage.
If you have cracked, damaged, or decaying teeth, make an appointment at Brite Smile Dental today. Simply call the office or click the online booking tool.