For various reasons, teeth may require restoration to regain their original beauty and function. We offer a variety of restorative options, including composite (white) fillings, onlays, crowns, and bridges. When saving a tooth is no longer feasible, we collaborate with patients to determine the most suitable solution, which may involve implants or removable dentures or partials. Interested in learning more? Click the link below for further information.

More Information on Restorative Dentistry:
Fillings:

One of the most common methods for restoring a tooth is through a filling. White, or composite fillings, are applied to a tooth that has a cavity, is chipped, worn, or exhibits abrasions. Composite fillings represent the standard treatment for tooth decay, as many patients prefer them over amalgam (silver) fillings due to concerns about mercury poisoning or for aesthetic reasons. It's typical to experience sensitivity to cold after receiving a composite filling; however, this discomfort should diminish shortly thereafter. To safeguard these fillings, it's essential to maintain good oral hygiene practices and attend regular dental check-ups.

Sealants:

A sealant is a thin plastic coating material applied to teeth with deep grooves to help reduce the development of cavities. Typically, sealants are applied to children around 6 years old when they get their first permanent molars, and again at 12 years old when they get their second permanent molars. However, sealants can also be applied to any adult or baby tooth with deep grooves to prevent surface tooth decay. It's important to check sealants regularly for chipping and cracks to ensure their effectiveness.

Additional Services:
Root Canals:

A root canal procedure is necessary when the nerve of the tooth becomes diseased due to decay, infection, or trauma. During the procedure, the live tissue inside the tooth, known as the nerve, is removed, and the space is filled with special dental material. Following a root canal, the tooth becomes very brittle and requires a crown to protect it from breaking and potential extraction. Symptoms indicating the need for a root canal include extreme sensitivity to hot and cold, severe aching, or the presence of an abscess underneath the tooth. However, in some cases, a tooth may be symptom-free but still require a root canal.

Root canals are generally successful treatments, with re-treatment of the tooth being rare occurrences.

Crowns, bridges, and onlays :

There are several reasons a dental crown is needed: after a root canal, when a tooth has large fillings, when a tooth is broken, and for cosmetic purposes.

A crown, sometimes called a cap, covers the entire tooth, making it stronger. They can be made out of many materials, but we predominately use porcelain because of its strength and beauty.

If a patient has a missing tooth, a bridge may be a good option for them. A bridge is one connected piece that covers the front and back teeth with crowns, and a "fake" tooth is in the middle.

If a tooth is not yet at the point where a crown would be appropriate, then an onlay may be recommended. An onlay is similar to a crown in that it is made from the same material and will be cemented onto the tooth. However, an onlay will preserve more of the natural tooth structure because it will not cover the entire tooth.

Our office uses state-of-the-art technology to provide same-day crowns. Traditionally, the tooth would be prepared or trimmed down to the size to fit the crown. An impression would be taken, and the patient sent home while a lab creates the restoration. This process can take two weeks or longer. With same-day crowns, there is no need for a temporary or a second appointment. Instead of an impression, we take a digital scan, which we use to mill the crown or onlay in the office. It will be cemented the same day, and the tooth is restored back to health.