Dental bridges create new, artificial teeth, that fill in the area left by a missing tooth.

One procedure created a fixed dental bridge. Two crowns are attached to your teeth on each side of the false tooth to hold everything in place. Or, a resin-bonded bridge could be used in areas of your mouth that are under less stress. A cantilever bridge may be used when there a missing tooth only has one other tooth next to it. Remember, these cannot be taken out of your mouth, which is different than removable partial dentures! Bridges can reduce your risk of gum disease; help correct some bite issues, and even improve your speech. Bridges require your commitment to serious oral hygiene, but will last as many as ten years or more.

You can read more about these procedures here.

Crowns are a type of dental restoration where a tooth or implant is completely covered by a cap. In effect, the crown acts as the tooth’s new outer surface. Crowns are often needed when a large cavity threatens the ongoing health of a tooth. Crowns can be made from many materials, which are usually fabricated using indirect methods. Crowns are often used to improve the strength or appearance of teeth.

There are at least two methods for creating crowns that you may receive through our practice.

Porcelain Crowns

This type of crown will usually require two visits to your dentist. In the first visit, your dentist reshapes your tooth (possibly through removing some of it) and takes impressions to create the crown. After the dentist reshapes your tooth, he will use a special material to create an impression of it. The impression is sent to a facility that will make a permanent cover out of porcelain. You will head home with a temporary cover for your tooth.

When you return, your dentist will remove the temporary crown and fit the new porcelain one. Before cementing the permanent crown in place, your dentist will ensure that it fits comfortably and matches the color of your teeth.

You talk to you dentist about dental veneers if:

• Your teeth are stained or discolored
• Your teeth are crooked or misshaped
• Your teeth have spaces between
• Your teeth are broken or chipped

Two types of veneers are commonly used. Porcelain veneers are more durable, and resist stains better. The other type is composite resin veneers. Unlike porcelain, these are not made in a laboratory, but instead directly applied to the teeth. They typically have a shorter life span, and are less expensive.

We have extensive experience in providing veneers in all kinds of cases. Our highly trained staff will work with you to decide the best course of action.

If you want to know more about veneers in general, visit this site.

A gingivectomy is a common dental procedure that raises and sculpts the gum line. The procedure involves reshaping the tissue and/or underlying bones to create the appearance of longer and more symmetrical teeth.

Our dentists are skilled at this procedure, and will inform you if this is the right treatment for your situation. Remember, cosmetic dentistry can fix dental issues, but it’s up to you to provide proper care and maintenance!

Daily brushing and flossing are a must for your new dental work. Removing plaque on a daily basis is critical for the long-term success of your new teeth, just like regular cleaning appointments.

You will need time to adjust to the feel of your new bite. Any time your bite is altered or the position of your teeth is changed it may take up to several days for the body to recognize and adapt to the changes. Give yourself time, but if problems persist, make sure to call our offices.

If you want to know more about this process, take a look at this site.