Bridges

A fixed bridge technique has been used with high success for many years to replace a missing tooth or teeth. Teeth on both sides of the space left by the missing tooth are prepared for a crown. Then a false tooth is joined to the crowns, and the entire bridge is cemented to the prepared teeth. The patient cannot remove the bridge, and special aids are available to keep it clean. Although dental implants are often considered the “gold standard” for the replacement of missing teeth, in the appropriate circumstance, a fixed bridge can be a viable alternative.

Crowns

Crowns cover or “cap” a tooth to restore the normal function and appearance of the tooth. Crowns may be made as all metal, porcelain fused to metal, or all-ceramic (porcelain). Crowns are indicated for teeth with very large fillings, teeth that have had a root canal, fractured teeth, worn teeth due to grinding, and misshapen and/or discolored teeth.

Implant Crowns and Bridges

Dental implants are metal cylinders made of titanium surgically placed in the jawbone where teeth are missing. Implants can be utilized to replace the roots of missing teeth and support single crowns and large bridges. State-of-the-art technology makes it possible for these implant-supported replacement teeth to look, feel, and function like natural teeth.

Dentures

Dentures are replacements for missing teeth. Complete dentures replace all teeth and removable partial dentures replace some teeth.

By matching each individual’s unique smile and bite, dentures can improve facial appearance and self-confidence. Dentures may also improve speech problems caused by missing teeth and will improve chewing.

Implant Supported Dentures

Implants can be utilized to help stabilize dentures and make them more retentive. A normal denture rests on the gums and is supported by the bone and soft tissue. Implant-supported dentures are attached to implants and can either be fixed or removable. There are many different designs and types of attachments. Our team will help determine the best design to meet your needs and satisfaction.

Veneers

Porcelain veneers are used to modify the shape and color of teeth, and they are the treatment of choice for teeth that are relatively intact but may be misshapen, discolored, or chipped. Veneers are thin shells of porcelain that are internally etched and then bonded to the enamel of the teeth. A small amount of tooth structure must be removed to make room for the porcelain veneer and to avoid making the tooth look big and bulky. The tooth preparation is limited to the enamel and usually involves only a few surfaces of the tooth, unlike a crown or cap. A prosthodontist uses porcelain veneers to improve the appearance of teeth and to even close spaces or gaps between teeth.