Dental work doesn’t need to be obvious. With a focus on both dental health and esthetics, Dr. Matthew Bridges provides natural-looking restorations as an alternative to what was available in previous generations of restorative dentistry–obvious metal dental fillings, crowns, and bridgework.
You should never feel indulgent or selfish for wanting an attractive, natural-looking smile. Studies show that a smile is one of the first things people notice about a person. As such, the smile is responsible for making a first impression, even before you speak. We know from polls that a complete smile with white, straight teeth sends the impression of intelligence, friendliness, success, attractiveness, and good health. This translates into a positive first impression in all activities: social, romantic, and professional.
If you have obvious metal dental work and would like it replaced with all-white restorations, or you need new restorative dentistry, Dr. Bridges invites you to learn more in today’s blog. We’ll review the ins and outs of:
- White Fillings
- White Crowns
- Metal-Free Bridges
White Fillings
First, let’s talk about amalgam. Dental amalgam has been used to restore tooth decay in the United States since its introduction in 1833, nearly 200 years ago. Today, amalgam is made up mostly of silver, tin, and copper. It also contains trace amounts of other metals, including the toxic heavy metal mercury.
Patients with mercury sensitivity should not get amalgam fillings. In fact, if you’re concerned about the impact your amalgam fillings may have on your health, ask Dr. Bridges about replacing them with metal-free composite resin fillings.
Today, we prefer to fill all cavities with composite resin. Dr. Glud will custom-tint metal-free resin so that it blends with the dental enamel on your affected tooth. This will make your new fillings virtually impossible to discern from natural tooth structure.
White Crowns
Restorative dentistry, particularly for front teeth that show when you smile, should look natural and endure the rigors of biting foods. Molars, however, must endure more pressure than front teeth. If you need a crown on a molar, Dr. Bridges offers all-white, long-lasting zirconia crowns. These options will keep your smile white throughout.
A Note About Insurance Coverage for Restorative Dentistry
In some cases, insurance won’t pay for white fillings and crowns on front teeth. Should your insurance only pay for metal restorative dentistry and you desire white fillings and crowns, our financial advisors can adjust your treatment plan so that you pay the difference in cost. We also offer financing with low and no interest for qualified patients.
Metal-Free Bridges
Depending on where you’ve lost teeth (or a tooth), you may be eligible for an all-ceramic bridge. In the past, bridges had to have a metal core, so they were all made of porcelain fused over metal (PFM). On front teeth, PFM bridges eventually reveal a dark blue line at the base of the crowns that anchor the bridge. To keep your smile white and beautiful, Dr. Bridges prefers to place all-ceramic bridges in the smile zone.
Excellent Restorative Dentistry in Duncan
If you need restorative dentistry, call on Duncan dentist Dr. Matthew Bridges. At Chisholm Trail Smile Center, we serve patients of all ages, so your whole family is welcome. We are accepting new patients and invite you to call us today at 580.255.4880 to schedule your consultation, checkup and cleaning, or second-opinion visit.
