General Dentistry
Composites (fillings)
Dental fillings are a quick and effective way to restore teeth affected by cavities or damage. Made from materials like composite resin, amalgam, or porcelain, fillings help to rebuild and protect your tooth structure, allowing you to bite and chew comfortably again. The process is typically straightforward, and most patients experience minimal discomfort. With a filling, you can smile confidently, knowing your teeth are healthy and strong! Regular check-ups can help ensure your fillings last for years to come.
Crowns
Crowns are used to restore the strength and appearance of damaged or weakened teeth. These custom-made caps fit over your existing tooth, providing protection and improving its shape, size, and color. Whether you're addressing a large cavity, a cracked tooth, or simply enhancing your smile, crowns offer both durability and a natural look. The process is usually straightforward, and with proper care, your crown can last many years, helping you feel confident in your smile every day!
Implants
Dental implants are a fantastic solution for replacing missing teeth! These small, titanium posts are gently placed in your jawbone, acting like natural tooth roots. They provide a stable and long-lasting foundation for beautiful replacement teeth, helping you regain your smile and confidence. Unlike traditional dentures, dental implants blend seamlessly with your jaw, offering comfort and a natural feel. With proper care, they can last for many years, making them a wonderful investment in your oral health and overall well-being.
Dental Sealants
Dental sealants are a simple and effective way to protect your teeth from cavities, especially in children and teenagers. These thin, protective coatings are applied to the chewing surfaces of molars, where decay often starts. Sealants create a smooth surface that makes it harder for food particles and bacteria to cling to your teeth, helping to prevent cavities before they can form. The application process is quick and painless!
Inlays + Onlays
Inlays and onlays are often referred to as partial crowns. They use the existing tooth as a base and fit the inlay or onlay onto the tooth. This is done to strengthen the tooth, restore its shape, and prevent further damage. An inlay is done when there is no damage to the cusps of the tooth and the inlay can be placed right on the tooth. An inlay is used when the damage is a little more extensive.
The decayed area of the tooth is first removed during the procedure. A mold of the tooth is then taken and sent to a dental lab. They create a restoration made from porcelain, gold, or a composite resin. The restoration takes about 2-3 weeks to make, so a temporary inlay or onlay will be placed on the tooth for that time. During your next visit the inlay or onlay will be placed into your mouth and set with cement. Your tooth will look natural and you or anyone else won't be able to tell the difference.
Bridges
Dental bridges are used to fill the gap left by one or more missing teeth. They consist of one or more artificial teeth, called pontics, which are anchored in place by crowns on the adjacent teeth. Bridges not only restore your smile but also help maintain the shape of your face and improve your ability to chew and speak. The procedure is typically simple, and with proper care, your bridge can last for many years, allowing you to enjoy a confident and functional smile!
Dentures
Dentures are a comfortable and effective solution for those missing some or all of their teeth. Custom-designed to fit your mouth perfectly, dentures restore your smile and make it easier to eat and speak with confidence. They can be full, replacing all your teeth, or partial, filling in gaps where some natural teeth remain. Modern dentures are lightweight and natural-looking, ensuring that you feel great about your appearance. With proper care and regular check-ups, dentures can provide a reliable and long-lasting solution for your oral health!
Night Guards
Many people are afflicted with "bruxism" or teeth grinding. Some people may do this consciously during the day, but it is a larger problem at night while you are asleep. Grinding your teeth can damage enamel, wear down teeth, cause jaw pain, or irritate your gums. The noise from teeth grinding can also disturb your spouse's sleep if loud enough.
If you grind your teeth you should consider a night guard. The night guard, which is very similar to a mouth guard worn by athletes, provides a barrier between your top and bottom teeth while you sleep. All night guards are custom fitted for comfort and to allow for proper breathing. Your dentist will take an impression of your teeth and have the night guard created by a dental lab. Night guards are very durable and can be used for up to 10 years.
If you suspect you might be grinding your teeth at night, feel free to schedule your next consultation with us to discuss!