Restorative Crowns and Fillings in Acworth, GA

Teeth affected by decay, due to harmful acids created from oral bacteria, develop small holes in the enamel referred to as cavities. When detected, the decay must be removed so it does not spread and grow. Additionally, fractured, cracked, or broken teeth need restorative repair to protect the vulnerable inner pulp of the tooth from becoming inflamed or infected. The two most common treatments to repair teeth affected by these conditions are composite fillings and dental crowns.

Fillings restore small areas of damage, such as cavities. These are more effective on teeth and areas of teeth that receive less pressure from chewing and biting. At Acworth Premier Dental Care, we use composite, tooth-colored fillings that provide a seamless appearance and won’t be noticeable when you speak or smile. Additionally, composite fillings do not contain metal or mercury, which can some patients may have a sensitivity to. Though the American Dental Association approves the use of amalgam fillings (or mercury-containing fillings), Dr. Tran and our team only use composite fillings not only for their aesthetic benefits, but for our patients’ peace of mind.

Dental crowns are protective caps which cover the entire visible surface of a tooth. They can protect weakened teeth that have sustained damage or infection when a filling won’t suffice. Dental crowns treat more advanced forms of decay or damage to natural teeth and offer aesthetic results that mimic the natural look and feel of a tooth. A long-lasting dental bonding agent keeps harmful bacteria or outside particles from reaching the weakened, vulnerable tooth. This helps prevent additional infection or inflammation.

Crowns used in modern dentistry are created from medical-grade ceramics, metals, zirconia, or from porcelain that has been fused to metal and are superior at protecting your damaged tooth for multiple reasons:

• Dental crowns provide a sure fit to prevent food debris or bacteria from invading the pulp or inner layers of the natural tooth.
• Medical-grade materials are extremely durable, holding up to yearsof tooth activity while allowing the natural appearance of glossy, white enamel.
• Porcelain and zirconia are hypoallergenic, which puts patients with allergies at peace, knowingallergic reactions or hyper-sensitivity common with other materials will not impact their health.

Dr. Tran can determine which restorative treatment is best for you. Usually, she takes into consideration:

• The severity or size of the damage: Larger areas of decay or damage (such as a crack or fracture) need a larger restoration than one small cavity. Many cavities, when detected early enough, can be treated by a small composite filling, with no need for a dental crown.
• The pre-existing condition of the natural tooth: If the damaged tooth has additional fillings, or is showing signs of weakened outer enamel, Dr. Tran may choose to repair it with a dental crown to help prevent further damage in the future.
• The location of the damage: Dental crowns better protect teeth in high impact areas. However, damage on a low-impact area of a tooth may be restored just as well through a composite filling.