Dental Crowns, Bridges, Implant Restoration & Fillings
The hardest substance in the human body is tooth enamel. When this structure is compromised due to decay or trauma, it can sometimes be restored by rebuilding the tooth structure with a protective crown, or "cap". If the tooth is damaged beyond repair, it may be replaced by a dental bridge supported by adjacent teeth, or, a dental implant placed by a specialist and then restored by our doctors with a crown.
For areas of lesser damage, smaller, more conservative laboratory-fabricated inlays or onlays can sometimes be placed to restore tooth structure. Composite plastic or silver filling materials can also be used to repair tiny chipped areas or deep grooves in the teeth that have developed early signs of decay due to penetrative bacteria.
Tooth restorations are available in a variety of materials, including gold and semi-precious metals, as well as natural-looking materials such as tooth-colored fillings or porcelain.
The main purpose of any restoration is to help balance the biting forces of the mouth and create a surface that is easy to clean. Sometimes we will use materials to "build up" remaining tooth structure to create a better foundation for placing a restoration.
In some cases, the nerve of the tooth may have been affected by the damage to the tooth, requiring a root canal procedure to treat infection and seal the canals prior to placing a permanent restoration. We sometimes refer our patients to a root canal specialist, or Endodontist, for this procedure.
Prevention is the key - Keeping your teeth healthy is ultimately better for your smile and your budget. Our goal is to detect warning signs of tooth decay or bite imbalance as early as possible through regular checkups and dental cleanings. Be sure to ask about preventive measures that you can take at home, such as brushing and flossing techniques or medicated rinses to help protect your smile.