When decay is more extensive or a large, old filling needs to be replaced, porcelain or gold restorations provide a more permanent resolution. These restorations can last 20 to 30 years or more if well cared for (yes, that means regular flossing and dental cleanings). Dr. Owens believes in conservative dental treatment and prefers to do partial coverage crowns and onlays when applicable so that your healthy tooth structure remains contributing to a stronger tooth and restoration. Though the expense for these restorations is greater than a filling, they last much longer, reducing multiple retreatments of a filling on the same tooth. Also, after a filling has been replaced multiple times, there is less healthy natural tooth structure, by investing into gold or porcelain you will reduce the number of treatments on that tooth during your lifetime, incur less expenses, and conserve more of your natural tooth. We will address all of your treatment options so that you can make the best informed decision.

These restorations are made of porcelain, gold, or a combination of both materials.  Models of your teeth are created and your crown is custom made. Because gold and porcelain are created outside of the mouth, they are stable and do not cause fractures or leakage like fillings.

GOLD

A metal that is strong and easy to shape for conservative designs.  Ideal for grinders and molar teeth.

PORCELAIN

A tooth colored stone that can be matched to your teeth.  It does require more thickness to achieve ideal.  Because it is a stone, it can fracture with excessive stress.