FAQs: Tooth-Colored Restorations & Fillings

Questions for your Wilmington dentist?

Here are some of the most commonly asked dentistry questions we are asked by patients, as well as excerpts from Dr. Gladnick's column in the Wilmington News Journal's "Ask the Dentist." If you have further questions, or want to schedule your next dentist appointment, call us today!

 

Tooth-Colored Restorations & Fillings

Sealants are used to protect healthy teeth that have a high potential for decay. Most often, these are the molars with deep grooves. A PRR, preventive resin restoration, is a type of filling that is placed when a cavity has begun and is infiltrating the grooves in the chewing surface of the tooth.

As dentists, we prefer to protect the enamel and structure of the tooth and avoid decay completely. Sealants and fluoride are two tools that give us a better chance at prevention.

Cosmetic Dentistry in Wilmington DEAbsolutely – a nice smile is a key part of looking and feeling your best. It even adds to your self-confidence and self-esteem. You see, excessively worn front teeth age a smile (some may even suspect you wear a denture!). They often chip and crack, leaving uneven edges. Worn teeth can be lengthened and chipped or damaged areas corrected using advanced dental materials. 

Call Our Dental Office

Here at Justison and Gladnick Family Dentistry, we offer a number of cosmetic and restorative options to fit your needs: veneers, whitening, crowns, bridges, and more. Ask your Wilmington DE dentist for a smile evaluation or phone us for a complimentary one at (302) 468-6742.

A Maryland bridge uses resin-bonded wings attached to neighboring teeth rather than full crowns, like a traditional bridge. In many cases, a Maryland bridge can last 5 to 15 years or longer with proper care, though longevity depends on certain personal and clinical factors. 

Factors That Determine the Longevity of Your Dental Restoration

The lifespan of a Maryland bridge often depends on bite forces, oral hygiene habits, diet, and whether the bridge is exposed to heavy chewing pressure. It’s worth noting that patients who grind their teeth (bruxism) may place added stress on the bonding surfaces.

At Justison & Gladnick Family Dentistry, careful planning and proper case selection help improve long-term success. Regular cleanings and home care also play a major role in protecting both the bridge and supporting teeth.

When to Visit Justison & Gladnick for a Maryland Bridge

Schedule an evaluation if your bridge feels loose, shifts when biting, traps food more often, or irritates the surrounding gums. Changes in bite comfort or visible wear are also reasons to come in promptly.

Routine dental visits help catch small issues before they become larger repairs or replacements.  Professional monitoring can often extend the life of restoration.

Precisely Placed Dental Bridges in Wilmington, DE

If you’re in Wilmington and wondering, “Where can I reliably and comfortably get a dental bridge near me?” contact the skilled and experienced team at Justison & Gladnick Family Dentistry to schedule a consultation.

Patients embarrassed by worn, flat, chipped, or discolored teeth should know that modern dentistry offers several ways to rebuild a healthier, more confident smile. The right treatment depends on why the wear happened. 

Yes, but successful treatment starts with diagnosing the underlying cause. If nighttime grinding or clenching (bruxism) is causing the damage, restoring appearance without addressing the bite and jaw joints will likely result in a recurrence of the same problem. In some cases, bite adjustments or a custom nightguard may be recommended to reduce future damage.

Can Worn, Flat Teeth from Grinding Be Fixed?

Veneers can immediately improve the shape and color of teeth. However, though veneers are durable, repeated force can place them at risk. Thus, they’re suited for the constant pressure of chronic or aggressive grinding. For severely worn teeth, porcelain crowns are often a stronger option because they fully cover and protect the tooth while restoring length, shape, and function.

At Justison & Gladnick Family Dentistry, treatment may also include whitening, dental bonding, bridges, or a combination of cosmetic and restorative solutions.

Strong, Natural Smile Restoration in Wilmington, DE

If you’re in Wilmington and want to learn more about repairing worn teeth, treating grinding damage, or restoring your smile with confidence, contact the experienced and caring team at Justison & Gladnick Family Dentistry to schedule a consultation.

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