Dr. Milla Openko frequently uses fillings to repair small cavities. While the artificial materials they are cast from are meant to repair the tooth for many years, no filling can last forever. If you struggle to maintain good oral hygiene habits, the bacteria living in your mouth are even more likely to try to weaken the bond between a filling and otherwise healthy tooth enamel.
Early signs of a filling that is going bad include heightened sensitivity, discomfort when chewing, or a change in texture. Should you notice a gray shade in the tooth enamel surrounding the filling, it likely means the bacteria have infiltrated the area. In a situation like this, a new cavity could form.
To treat a tooth in this condition, Dr. Milla Openko might recommend a dental crown restoration. This will perfectly replicate the tooth enamel layer of the tooth using a material like porcelain, gold or a base metal alloy.
The process starts by examining the tooth and taking some X-rays. It’s important to make sure the sensitive internal structures of the tooth are healthy. If new decay has compromised the pulp or root of the tooth, your dentist might need to perform a root canal.
Your dentist will then numb the area with Novocain before using a drill to remove all remaining tooth enamel. This leaves behind a small post called an abutment. This will eventually anchor your new crown.
We will make a detailed impression of the abutment and surrounding teeth. It will then be sent to our dental lab where your new crown will be created. Your dentist will then protect the abutment by securing a temporary crown over the abutment.
A member of our staff will call you to schedule the second appointment when your new crown is ready. We will then remove the temporary crown and cement your new crown into place.
If you suspect that one of your fillings is in trouble and you would like to learn more about a dental crown in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, you should call 412.885.5590 to have it treated at Milla Openko, DMD.