A filling or a crown repairs a tooth that is decayed or cracked
A filling replaces the damaged part of a tooth. A crown covers the whole tooth when too little of it is left to hold a filling.
Dr. Galvan shows you the tooth and what she sees, and explains the options before any work begins. You choose which steps you want, in the order you want them.
What happens
A filling is usually one visit. A crown is usually two.
- 01
Step 1: Exam and options
She shows you the tooth and gives the estimate in writing.
- 02
Step 2: Numbing
She numbs the area and checks that it is numb before she starts.
- 03
Step 3: The repair
She removes the decay and places the filling, or shapes the tooth for a crown.
- 04
Step 4: The crown visit
At the second visit the lab-made crown is fitted and checked against your bite.
Comfort, choices and care
Comfort
We use local numbing. You may feel pressure and hear the drill. Raise a hand and we stop.
If you wait
A cavity usually grows, and a crack can spread. Sometimes a tooth can wait and be watched. She will say which.
Risks and after-care
A tooth can be sensitive to cold or biting for a few days or longer. Call us if your bite feels high or the pain gets worse.
How it's billed
Many dental plans pay toward fillings and crowns, and the amount differs by plan. You get a written estimate before we start.
How fees work
Questions about fillings and crowns
How long will a filling last?
It depends on the tooth, the size and how you care for it. We check it at your checkups.
What is a crown made of?
We go through the materials with you and explain what each one means for cost and wear.
Do you offer sedation?
No. We use local numbing only. If you want sedation we refer you to a dentist who is permitted to give it.
Provided by a general dentist
Dr. Dayanara Galvan, DDS, general dentist, licensed in Washington.