About us
Fillings and crowns
A filling repairs a tooth with a cavity. A crown covers a tooth that is cracked, worn or too weak to hold a filling.
Dr. Maeda recommends one or the other after an exam, and shows you on your own X-ray. He gives you the options, what each costs and what happens if you wait, and you decide.
Options and costs explained first
Written estimate before work starts
Provided by a general dentist
Services
What happens, step by step
A filling is usually one visit, and a crown often takes two. We tell you which before you start.
- 01
The exam and the plan
He shows you the tooth, explains the choices, and you get the estimate on paper.
- 02
Numbing, if you want it
We numb the area before we start and check that it's working before we go on.
- 03
The repair
A filling is usually one visit. A crown often takes two, with a temporary one in between.
- 04
The bite check
Before you leave, we check how your teeth meet and that the repair feels right.
Services
Comfort, choices and care
Comfort
We numb the area first and check it's working. Raise a hand at any point and we stop.
If you wait
A small cavity can grow, and a crack can spread. He'll tell you how soon he'd want to see you again.
Risks and after-care
Your mouth may be numb for a few hours, so wait to eat. A tooth can be sensitive for a few days. Call us if it isn't settling.
How it's billed
Fillings and crowns are not part of either plan. You get a written estimate before we start, and you take it home to think over.
How fees work
Questions about fillings and crowns
How long does a filling take?
It depends on the tooth and how much needs repair. We'll tell you when you schedule.
Why two visits for a crown?
The tooth is shaped at the first visit and a temporary crown is placed while the permanent one is made. The permanent crown goes on at the second.
Can I wait on a filling?
It's your decision. We explain what we see and what could happen if you wait, and we put the estimate in writing.
What if the tooth hurts between visits?
Call us. If it can't wait, we will find a time to see you.
Provided by a general dentist
Dr. Hiroshi Maeda, DDS, general dentist, licensed in Montana. Fillings and crowns are provided by a general dentist.