Restorative Care
Our restorative dentistry focuses on repairing or replacing damaged or missing teeth. These procedures help improve oral health and function. Common dental restorations include sealants, fillings, crowns and bridges.
Sealants
Sealants are thin, liquid coatings painted onto the chewing surfaces of your back teeth (premolars and molars). Once applied, a dentist cures and hardens the sealant material to shield and protect your teeth from harmful cavity-causing bacteria.
Composite Fillings
A composite (tooth-colored) filling is used to repair a tooth that is affected by decay, cracks, fractures, etc. The decayed or affected portion of the tooth will be removed and then filled with a composite filling. Composite fillings are tooth-colored and can be closely matched to the color of existing teeth, making them more aesthetically suited for use in front teeth or the more visible areas of the teeth.As with most dental restorations, composite fillings are not permanent and may someday need to be replaced. However, they are very durable and will last many years, giving you a long-lasting, beautiful smile.Composite fillings are usually placed in one appointment. While the tooth is numb, our dentist will remove decay as necessary. The space will then be thoroughly cleaned and carefully prepared before the new filling is placed. The composite filling will then be precisely placed, shaped, and polished, restoring your tooth to its original shape and function. Good oral hygiene practices, eating habits, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new fillings.
Dental Crowns
Dentists use dental crowns on patients who cannot get fillings to protect what remains of a tooth or to cap off the site of a dental implant. A crown is a tooth-shaped cap made of porcelain, resin, or both and covers the affected area, protecting it from further damage. The crown looks like a real tooth and is engineered to fit that area exactly. When we perform any work that requires a crown, you can expect the procedure to be completed in two visits. The first visit will be used to clean and prepare the affected area and remove any decay or infection. At the completion of the first visit, you can expect to leave with a temporary crown in place. During this visit, we will take the impression or scan, which will be sent to our lab to create the permanent crown. At the second visit, we will install the crown, and you are set to go.
Fixed Bridges
A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) appliance and is an excellent way to replace missing teeth. A bridge consists of two crowns that go over two anchoring teeth (abutment teeth) and are attached to pontics (artificial teeth), filling the gap created by one or more missing teeth. Dental bridges are highly durable and will last many years; however, they may need replacement or need to be re-cemented due to normal wear. Getting a bridge usually requires two or more visits. While the teeth are numb, the two anchoring teeth are prepared by removing a portion of enamel to allow for a crown. Next, a highly accurate impression (mold) is made, which will be sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge will be fabricated. In addition, a temporary bridge will be made and worn for several weeks until your next appointment. During the second visit, your permanent bridge will be carefully checked, adjusted, and cemented to achieve a proper fit. Occasionally, our dentist may only temporarily cement the bridge, allowing your teeth and tissue time to get used to the new bridge. In this case, the new bridge will be permanently cemented at a later time. Proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new permanent bridge.