Restorative Dentistry in Foggy Bottom

A filling is a composite resin that is placed when a tooth has a cavity. A cavity is decay that needs to be removed to prevent root canal, loss of tooth or a fracture. It is removed and a composite is placed to replace any missing tooth structure.

Many patients ask the benefits of composite, tooth colored fillings over amalgam, aka silver fillings. The composite filling is bonded to the tooth and results in less removal of tooth structure. Minimizing the loss of tooth structure allows for the tooth to maintain its strength and prevent fracture.

A crown is also referred to as a ‘cap’. It is a porcelain shell that is placed on the entire tooth. Crowns are placed on the tooth when there is concern with esthetics, integrity of the tooth, or to replace a missing tooth.

• Esthetics: For teeth with discoloration that can not be corrected with bleaching, issues with alignments, gaps, or chipped and fractured teeth
• Integrity of Tooth: After an examination if it is determined the tooth in question can not withstand the forces of the patients bite without potentially causing severe damage to the tooth, a crown is recommended
• Replace a missing tooth: If there is a missing tooth and it needs to be replaced there are a few options:
  • Implant placed to replace the root of the tooth and a crown placed on top to mimic your natural crown.
  • Bridge: A bridge is a series of 2 or more crowns splinted together. This is a great option for patients who are not candidates or are not implants. With the proper oral hygiene a bridge can last several years.
  • Partial denture: used when one or more teeth are missing. Is removable and must be removed at night. Can be a permanent solution to missing teeth and can also be used temporarily when esthetics is a concern and in the interim stages of more extensive treatment.

Dental implants are placed when one or more teeth are missing. The implant takes the place of your missing tooth root. After the implant is placed it takes approximately 3 months for the permanent crown to be placed. An evaluation including evaluating the bone levels in your jaw are needed to determine if you are a good candidate for implants.

When some of your teeth or all of teeth are missing dentures are a great option to regain your smile, improve digestion by allowing you to chew your food better and bringing back your confidence. Schedule your appointment today for a full evaluation to determine which option is better for you.

There are several different types of dentures:

• Full or Partial
• Removable or Fixed
• Traditional or Implant-Supported