If your teeth are damaged by decay or injury, to get your smile back in working order, cosmetic dentists may use fillings or crowns. These restorative procedures can strengthen or protect decayed teeth. Fillings and crowns have gone through many changes, so modern dental work could improve older tooth restoration techniques. The history of fillings and crowns has continued to unfold over recent years, with a great many continual improvements for offering the most durable and beautiful smile restorations possible.
Metal Fillings and Crowns
In the past, dental fillings and crowns were comprised of metal. Fillings became an alloy of different metals called dental amalgam. There is controversy over whether these metal fillings are safe because of the metals used in the alloy. While some say the use of mercury in filling alloys is dangerous, others, like the American Dental Association, claim they are safe. Crowns also experienced a similar evolution from metal to composite material. Initially just metal, crowns eventually saw plastic in their construction. That material proved to be too weak, so a porcelain and metal combination was used to crown teeth. This proved to be aesthetically displeasing since the metal was visible. Recent developments take care of that problem with crowns.
Porcelain Alternatives
Tooth decay can now be repaired by using ceramics. These fillings have a more natural look compared to dark metal fillings. Some patients feel more comfortable knowing heavy metals are absent from their mouths. As for crowns, cosmetic dentists offer porcelain and metal alternatives with no visible metal. If those don’t fit your needs, full porcelain crowns are also available. Strong ceramic replacements for metal or composite dental restoration can get years more out of your teeth. Porcelain can also be color-matched to your existing teeth, so your smile will look natural.
ABOUT YOUR PALATINE DENTIST:
Dr. Brent Engelberg and his highly-skilled team proudly serve patients and their families from Arlington Heights, IL, and all surrounding communities, including; Northbrook, Deerfield, Highland Park, Wilmette, Winnetka, Glencoe, Vernon Hills, Lincolnshire, Libertyville, Skokie, Evanston, Palatine, Schaumburg, Elk Grove Village, Rolling Meadows, and the Northern and Northwest Chicago Suburbs. To learn more, schedule a consultation online, or call our office today at 847-259-8030.
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