Porcelain crowns are a covering that encase the entire tooth surface restoring it to its original shape and size. A crown protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations.
There
are several types of bridges. To determine
which bridge is best suited to your situation, you
and Dr. Geller will discuss the options. Three main
types of bridges are routinely chosen for the
situation which involves a missing tooth or teeth:
1. Porcelain Bonded to Metal Bridge- "Traditional
Bridge"
2. All-Porcelain (also know as All-Ceramic) Bridge
3. Full Gold Bridge
The “traditional bridge” is the most common type
and is usually made of porcelain bonded to
metal. All-Porcelain fixed bridges are most
popular because they resemble your natural
teeth. Full Gold bridges have been around for
longest period of time but are cosmetically not the
favorite choice amongst patients.
There are two types of dentures - complete and
partial dentures. When all of the teeth are
missing complete dentures are made, while partial
dentures are used when some natural teeth
remain. A Partial denture not only fills in
the spaces created by missing teeth, it prevents
other teeth from shifting.
by Dr. Justin Geller
A composite (tooth colored or white) filling is used to repair a tooth that is affected by a cavity. The cavity or affected portion of the tooth will be removed and then filled with a composite filling. Composite fillings are most appropriate for small areas of decay, and can be closely matched to the color of existing teeth. These fillings are placed in one appointment. The composite filling will then be precisely placed, shaped, and polished, restoring your tooth to a normal shape and function.
Photos by Dr. Justin Geller
As with most dental restorations, veneers are not permanent and may someday need replacement. They are very durable and will last many years, giving you a beautiful long lasting smile.
A crown procedure usually requires two appointments. Your first appointment will include preparing the tooth by removing the cavity and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown. An impression will be taken and a custom temporary crown will be placed on your tooth. At your second appointment, your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate.
Reasons
for a fixed bridge:
-
Enhancing or restoring your smile by filling the space of missing teeth
-
Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of their normal position.
-
Restore chewing and speaking ability.
-
Upgrade from a removable partial denture to a permanent dental appliance.
A bridge procedure requires two appointments. Your first appointment will include preparing the teeth by removing the cavity and shaping the surface to properly fit the bridge. An impression will be taken and a custom temporary bridge will be placed on your tooth. At your second appointment, your temporary bridge will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new bridge will be carefully placed to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate. Proper brushing, flossing and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new permanent bridge.
Dental bridges are extremely durable and will last many years, however bridges may need replacement or need to be re-cemented due to normal wear.
Reasons for a fixed bridge:
-
Enhancing or restoring your smile by filling the space of missing teeth
-
Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of their normal position.
-
Restore chewing and speaking ability.
-
Upgrade from a removable partial denture to a permanent dental appliance.
Dentures
are very durable appliances and will last many
years, but may have to be remade, repaired, or
readjusted due to normal wear. They are an
affordable solution to missing teeth.
Reasons for dentures:
-
Complete Denture - Loss of all teeth in either your upper or lower jaw or both.
-
Partial Denture - Loss of several teeth in either your upper or lower jaw or both.
-
Enhancing smile and facial tissues.
-
Improving chewing, speech, and digestion.
If your tooth is not amenable to endodontic treatment or the chance of success is unfavorable, you will be informed at the time of consultation or when a complication becomes evident during or after treatment. We use local anesthesia to eliminate discomfort. In addition, we will provide nitrous oxide analgesia, if indicated. You will be able to drive home after your treatment, and you probably will be comfortable returning to your normal routine.






