Despite the greatest amount of diligence in oral hygiene, dental issues inevitably arise. Cavities develop, accidents cause teeth to be chipped, broken or lost and those with a genetic predisposition are prone to gum disease, to name a few. For such situations, restorative dentistry can provide a resolution to problems with the teeth, jaws and gum tissue.
Simple cavities can be drilled away and filled with a resin composite. This substance begins as a thick, malleable material but hardens to the consistency of natural enamel when exposed to a specially designed laser or UV light. Fillings help prevent further decay and eliminate the pain produced by cavities.
Crowns are a commonly used method of restoring teeth. They cover the entire visible portion of a tooth. They can prevent a weak tooth from further damage or repair one that is cracked. If a patient has only a few discolored teeth that cannot be corrected through teeth whitening methods, crowns can cover this issue as well.
Veneers are used to cover teeth that are worn, misshapen or severely discolored. The surface of the teeth are mildly abraded before veneers are applied. Once the teeth are prepared, the veneers are affixed to the outer surface of the natural teeth with a dental grade cement. They provide the look and feel of natural teeth while hiding any damage or discoloration underneath.
For patients who have lost some or all of their teeth due to extensive damage, dental implants may be in order. In this procedure, a small titanium post is embedded in the jawbone to act as an artificial tooth root. Over a period of 2 or 3 months, the jawbone grows around the post and holds it permanently in place.
An abutment is then attached to the post to hold crowns that will replace the missing teeth. These crowns are designed to match the shape and color of the patient’s real teeth; in addition, they replace the function of the lost teeth, improving speech, sunken facial features and chewing ability.
Those with gum disease experience swollen, tender gum tissue, bleeding and receding gums, extensive bacteria buildup and even bone loss that can lead to loose and missing teeth. Treatments are available to reduce bacteria, repair damaged gum tissue and help reverse bone loss.
To schedule a consultation regarding any of these needs and many more, visit us
