Restorations and Crowns

Restorations

Our office utilizes the latest and most up-to date materials for dental fillings.  We are currently using a material for fillings(both anterior and posterior) called Activa.  Activa is a tooth-colored bioactive composite.  It chemically bonds to the tooth and prevents micro-leakage.  It recharges with calcium, phosphate and fluoride ions to help prevent recurrent decay.

Our office no longer (and hasn't for many years) utilize amalgam fillings (silver).  Our doctor does feel this is a inferior filling material.  The FDA just recently (fall 2020) released new guidance no longer recommending use of amalgam fillings in children under 6 years, people with kidney problems, pregnant/nursing women and those with neurological problems.

Some insurance companies still only allow a "tooth colored" restoration for a posterior tooth to be reimbursed at a lesser (amalgam) fee.  Our office does send your child's treatment plan in to your dental insurance so you have an estimate of what your out-of-pocket expenses may be prior to your child's dental treatment.

Crowns- Stainless steel/zirconium crowns

Stainless steel crowns are prefabricated and used to restore primary and permanent molars.  They are indicated with large tooth decay with considerable missing tooth structure, decalcification, multi-surface decay on primary molars, developmental defects (hypoplasia/hypocalcification) and following pulpotomies or pulpectomies that weaken tooth structure and makes them susceptible to fracture.

The stainless steel crown is considered an ideal restoration for primary molars, as they are very durable, rarely come off(are cemented with a dental cement), and cannot get any recurrent decay as the crown completely covers the tooth.

Zirconium crowns are all white/tooth colored crowns which our office does utlize for primary anterior(front) teeth and cuspids for those teeth in need of a crown and allows an aesthetic appearance.  They are more technique sensitive.