Repair what needs help. Preserve what still works.

The service life of a filling depends on the tooth, the size of the filling, the bite, home care, and other clinical factors. Any specific number would be an estimate rather than a promise. Larger fillings on chewing teeth face more stress than smaller fillings on front teeth. Regular exams catch signs of wear before a small issue becomes a larger one.

When too much healthy tooth structure is missing, when a tooth has cracked, when a large old filling is failing, or when a tooth has had a root canal and needs protection from splitting. A crown wraps the tooth so the remaining structure is not doing all the work. Dr. D'Addio or Dr. Bauman explains the reasoning for the specific tooth. The Filling or Crown blog post walks through the decision framework.

The service life depends on the tooth, the bite, grinding habits, home care, and the health of the gum line around the crown. Any specific number would be an estimate rather than a promise. Ongoing exams catch issues at the margin before they cause problems.

Straightforward root canals may be handled in-house; complex cases are referred to a trusted endodontist. The right call is made after evaluating the specific tooth and its root anatomy. Ask about scope during the exam.

Routine extractions of erupted teeth are handled in-house. Surgical extractions, impacted teeth, third molars, and cases with complicating factors are referred to an oral surgeon. When a tooth cannot be saved, the office also discusses the replacement plan (bridge, implant restoration, or removable option) so the next step is clear.

Pain that keeps you up at night, pain radiating to the ear or jaw, visible swelling, a broken tooth with jagged edges cutting the tongue or cheek, or a tooth that has become mobile. Any of these is a reason to call the office rather than wait for a scheduled visit.

Coverage varies by plan. Dunning is out of network and submits claims to most carriers as a courtesy; the insurer makes the final benefit determination and sends reimbursement directly to you. Before treatment beyond a basic exam, the front desk provides a written estimate that shows the practice fee and the expected reimbursement based on plan information available. See the insurance and payment page for the full flow.

That is a normal conversation. Dr. D'Addio or Dr. Bauman prioritizes what is most likely to cause real trouble if left alone, and sequences the rest at a pace that works for you. Sequencing across months or across a year is a normal part of restorative care.

No. Crowns at Dunning are made by a lab so the fit, shade, and bite are right. That means two visits: one to prepare the tooth and take an impression, and a second to place the final crown.