Dental Restorations

Dental restoration is a treatment to restore the function of the teeth. And to repair/replace the tooth structure that have been compromised from decay or a trauma.

There are different types of restorations

Amalgam- Silver filling made up of different metals and contains mercury. Not as commonly used any more. Can last up to 10- 15 years.

Composite- Plastic resin material white in colour. Commonly used. Can last up to 5- 15 years.

Gold/ porcelain fillings- inlays/onlays made in a lab and cemented/bonded in place. Can last up to 20 years.

Crowns- also called a cap, encircles and covers the crown portion of the tooth that sits above the gum line.

Bridges- used to replace missing tooth or multiple teeth. Usually involving 3 or more teeth two teeth support missing tooth/teeth on either side attaching to the false floating tooth in the middle.

Implants- Used to replace missing tooth or teeth. An implant post is placed beneath the gum. Then a crown is attached to implant post, either screwed together or cemented.

After a composite filling is placed it is best to wait to eat right away until the anesthetic wears off so you do not bite your tongue or cheek. The filling itself may be sensitive for a day up to a few weeks afterward but should resolve.