Fillings and crowns
A filling repairs a tooth that has a cavity. A crown covers a tooth that is cracked, broken or worn down, or that has had a large filling. Both are for a tooth that can still be repaired.
What happens
A filling is usually one visit. A crown is usually two, a few weeks apart.
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Step 1: Exam and estimate
Dr. Holbrook shows you the tooth and gives you the fee in writing before she starts.
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Step 2: Numbing
She numbs the tooth and the gum around it and waits until you're sure it's numb.
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Step 3: The repair
She removes the damaged part of the tooth and places the filling, or shapes the tooth for a crown and fits a temporary one.
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Step 4: The second visit, for a crown
The finished crown is fitted and checked with you before it is cemented.
The number of visits depends on the tooth. She'll tell you what to expect for yours.
Comfort, choices and care
Comfort
We use a local anesthetic so the tooth is numb while she works. You may feel pressure and hear the drill. You can raise a hand for a break at any time.
If you wait
A cavity usually grows. A small one can be a small repair; a large one can mean a crown, or a tooth that can't be saved. A cracked tooth can break. Some people choose to watch a small spot; she'll say what to look for.
Risks and after-care
Your lip and cheek stay numb for a few hours, so don't chew until the feeling returns. A tooth can be sensitive for a few days. Call us if your bite feels high, the pain gets worse or a filling or crown comes loose.
How it's billed
The fee is in your written estimate before we start. We don't bill insurance, and we give you an itemized receipt.
How fees work
Questions about fillings and crowns
What are fillings made of?
Dr. Holbrook will go over the materials she uses and why, and you can ask about the choices before she starts.
How long does a crown take?
Usually two visits. The second one is for fitting the finished crown.
Can a crown come off?
It can, though not often. If one does, keep it and call us.
Provided by a general dentist
Dr. Shari Holbrook, DDS, general dentist, licensed in New Mexico.