We offer many options that will restore functionality for broken or missing teeth, due to dental disease or injury. Restorative dentistry includes fillings, crowns, bridges, implants, dentures, and root canal therapy. Depending on your situation, there may be more than one option to correct the problem. We will thoroughly discuss these options with you, so we can make a decision based on what’s best for you.
Fillings are used to repair minimal tooth fractures, decay, or damaged surfaces of the teeth. In many cases, patients with enamel loss resulting in tooth sensitivity will experience a significant improvement or total elimination of sensitivity once the filling is placed. We use two different types of filling material: composite and amalgam. The amalgam is silver in color, is a stronger material, and is longer lasting. We typically use the tooth-colored composite filling material in areas that will be visible when you smile. Dr. Trent will discuss the two options with you so that you can make the decision that you’re happiest with. We want you to love your smile.
Dental crowns, often referred to as caps, can preserve the functionality of damaged teeth. A crown can be used to protect a fractured tooth, restore functionality of a tooth with excessive decay, or replace a pre-existing crown. If you opt to get a crown, you will need a series of two appointments. The first appointment is called a crown prep and takes approximately two hours. Dr. Trent will prepare the tooth for a crown, which involves removing 2-3 millimeters of the tooth structure on each surface of the tooth. He will also take impressions and place a temporary crown. We will then send your impressions to the lab who will fabricate your crown. When we get your crown back from the lab and you come back for the second appointment, Dr. Trent will remove the temporary crown and replace it with the permanent one.
When teeth are missing, there are several options for replacing the teeth. Missing teeth are more than just a cosmetic problem. The absence of a tooth can cause many serious, long-term problems such as: a speech impediment, a change in bite that can affect your ability to chew, shifting of other teeth, temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), and an increased risk for periodontal disease and tooth decay. The options to replace missing teeth include dental bridges, dentures, and dental implants. We will discuss the options available to you so that you are able to make an informed decision regarding your treatment.
Dental bridges are one of the options for replacing missing teeth, when the space is surrounded by existing teeth. In this situation, the surrounding teeth are shaped and crowns are attached. The bridge is supported by the crowns on the surrounding teeth. Much like a single crown, a bridge takes a series of two appointments. The first appointment is a two hour appointment where the teeth are prepped and impressions are taken. The impressions are then sent to the lab where your bridge is fabricated. When you come back for the second appointment, it is a one hour appointment when the bridge is placed.
If a partial or total denture is a better option for you, we begin that process with a series of impressions to make sure that you get the best possible fit. We send those impressions to a lab where your denture is made. We then get your denture set in wax, which is called a try-in. This is done to make sure no major adjustments need to be made and you are satisfied with the look and color. After this, you receive your denture. While minor adjustments may need to be made, we are confident you will be satisfied with the quality and fit of your denture.
Below is a graphic video on a crown procedure.
Below is a graphic video on a bridge procedure.
