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Amalgams (silver) and Composites (tooth-colored)
 
When deciding what type of restoration (filling) is right for you please consider these facts:
Dr. Posluszny considers amalgam restorations to be safe although there are some drawbacks. First of all, they are unaesthetic. Also they are not adherent and must be locked into the tooth. Therefore with large restorations this will weaken the walls of the tooth and can cause tooth fracture. Finally, the metal in the restorations conduct hot and cold and teeth with these fillings may be sensitive temporarily to temperature changes with food and drink.
The big advantage to amalgam restorations is in the cost. There are fewer steps needed for their placement so they are substantially less expensive.
Composite restorations are much more esthetic. They closely match the tooth color and blend well with the remaining tooth structure. They are adherent to the teeth and may last longer than amalgams.
The drawback of composite restorations is in the time it takes to place them and the related higher cost.
Please discuss the fee differences with the front desk to find out what your out of pocket expense will be. It only takes a few minutes to prepare a comparison of amalgam and composite fees. We hope that this helps you make a more informed and therefore better decision for your personal situation.
Crowns and Restorations
A dental crown can make your tooth stronger and improve its appearance. The purpose of a crown can be to support a tooth with a large filling when there isn’t enough supporting tooth structure left to protect a weak or fracturing tooth from breaking, or to restore one that’s already broken. Crowns are also used to cover a dental implant and used to cover and protect teeth that have received root canal therapy.
A crown requires two separate appointments in the office. During the first visit, Dr. Posluszny will prepare the tooth and make an impression of the area to be restored. After the tooth is prepared a temporary crown is made to protect your tooth between appointments. The impression is sent to the dental laboratory, which custom makes the crown to fit your tooth. At the second appointment, Dr. Posluszny will permanently cement the crown onto the prepared tooth.
There may be certain situations when you will have a choice between a filling (restoration) and a crown. A restoration will be less expensive (depending on insurance coverage) and less time in the dental office, but it may not be as reliable as a crown in maintaining your tooth. Please talk with Dr. Posluszny if you have any concerns about the best option for you.
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