Hello,
As a private-pay patient, I would like to make an appointment with you for an examination and then treatment. Before that, however, I would like some additional information to make the decision easier. My upper left first premolar is a dead tooth (about 10 years), the filling is amalgam and the tooth is discoloured black.
The reasons for the procedure are aesthetic (a better appearance), but primarily better function (I would not want the tooth to break), and at the same time removal of the amalgam filling from this tooth. Of course, I would also like to preserve as much as possible of my existing tooth and its natural (not artificial-looking) appearance. Please base your answer on these expectations.
-Are you suggesting only replacement of the amalgam filling with a white one, or is a post also necessary? If necessary, do you place FRC posts (fiberglass reinforced composite), or which other type? What is the price?
-Do you also recommend a porcelain crown (ceramic crown)? Is the colour similar to the other teeth, or would this tooth then stand out as white? What is the price?
-Is an inlay also an option for a first premolar and would you recommend it in my specific case?
I would like to know what the waiting time is for an examination and how much the examination before treatment costs.
Thank you and kind regards,
Matej
Dentist Tomaž Rotar answers:
Dear Sir/Madam!
The decision about the type of restoration depends on the intensity of the discolouration of the existing tooth and your wishes regarding the perfection of the restoration. If the amalgam filling is extensive, I do not recommend replacing it with a white filling because of the physical properties of the latter. It is better to make an inlay, which has high fracture strength. If the remaining enamel is heavily discoloured, the two options listed are not suitable. In this case we recommend a crown, possibly on a post (depending on the amount of remaining tooth structure); the post can of course be zirconia or glass-fibre, which prevents further discolouration of the surrounding tissues. A titanium post also does not discolour the surroundings, but it is unsuitable if an all-ceramic crown, which is light-transmitting, is made on the post. Crowns can fully match the shape and colour of the neighbouring teeth.
Prices:
inlay: 210 Eur
crown (metal-ceramic): 210 Eur
Crown (all-ceramic E-max): 320 Eur.
Post: 30 Eur (all types).
examination: 50 Eur.
Have a nice day!