Restorative Dentistry
Restorative procedures help protect your oral and overall health while improving the appearance of your smile. Being able to properly chew and have correct bite alignment affects your health in ways that go beyond esthetics.
Restorative Services
Implant Restorations
Dental implants are composed of three pieces: a small screw made of titanium, an abutment which connects the screw and the final restoration, and the final restoration. The screw, which is placed in the jawbone, acts as a replacement for the tooth root, providing a strong foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth. The screw begins to fuse with the bone over the course of a few months. After the fusing process, the abutment is inserted into the screw to allow for the permanent attachment of the restoration.
Learn More About Dental Implants
Dental Bridges
A bridge can replace missing teeth without the use of a denture or dental implant. A bridge is composed of two crowns and a replacement tooth or teeth. Crowns are typically placed on the teeth on either side of the space, with the fabricated tooth or teeth attached in between. For multiple missing teeth, an implant may be used to anchor the bridge.
Crowns
A crown is a dental restoration that completely covers the outside of the tooth that is cracked, broken, worn down, or severely decayed. During the first visit, the tooth is prepared and an impression is taken so a temporary crown can be placed while the permanent crown is fabricated. During the second visit, the permanent crown is carefully fitted and then cemented into place.
Crown Lengthening
Crown lengthening is commonly used to expose more tooth structure, crown lengthening involves the removal of gum tissue and/or bone to expose more of a tooth’s structure.
Inlays and Onlays
An inlay or onlay is a partial crown restoration that can be placed when there is not sufficient tooth structure to support a filling, but enough tooth structure left that a full crown is not needed. Inlays/onlays are made of porcelain or gold, and they aesthetically and functionally replace the missing tooth structure.
As you discuss your treatment plan with your dentist, they can recommend the best restorative option for you.