Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry

Bonding

A bonding is a composite resin that is used as an alternative to amalgams and veneers. This is an excellent cosmetic option for those patients who do not want the look of silver and do not want the expense of veneers. A bonding is matched to the color of your natural teeth. Bonding can be used on teeth that are decayed, cracked, or stained.

Bridges

A bridge, by definition, is a link or connection between two permanent structures. A dental bridge is very similar in that it attaches the restorative teeth (bridge) to the natural teeth on either side of the gap. This bridge acts as your new teeth, closing the gap and restoring your smile. Bridges are often constructed of gold or metal foundations with porcelain fused to the foundation. This ensures that the bridge will support the normal functions of the mouth.

Crowns

As we get a little older, our teeth begin to change and are prone to decay. There are many possible reasons for this change in your smile. These reasons can include bruxism (teeth grinding), general decay, cracked fillings, root canals, and many others. If your tooth is beyond repair with a filling material, we may recommend that the best viable option to save the tooth is a full crown. The reasons for this type of restoration in a badly damaged tooth are durability, cosmetic appearance, and overall support of the chewing function.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are becoming more popular in today’s dental society for a number of reasons. Implants are utilized to offer patients a foundation for new restorative teeth where natural teeth are missing or have been extracted. The implant offers the patient the opportunity to regain normal function of the tooth without being forced to resort to a bridge or a denture.

Benefits

• The new implant will support your teeth firmly and safely.
• Your new implants are aesthetically pleasing.
• You will no longer have pain during talking or eating.
• The dental implant will prevent progressive bone atrophy.
• Implants have a proven scientific basis.

If you are considering a dental implant, contact us for an evaluation appointment. Dr. Rogers and the oral surgeon will perform an evaluation to determine whether you are a good candidate for a dental implant. If you are a good candidate for an implant, Dr. Rogers will provide you with further information to help you decide.

Extractions

During the procedure, the patient will be given a general or local anesthetic. This decision will be determined by the difficulty of the extraction as well as the individual needs of the patient. In the case of an impacted tooth, the gum and overlying bone tissue will be removed to expose the tooth. The dentist will then rock the tooth back and forth to loosen it in the jawbone. The tooth is extracted and sutures may be placed to secure the site. A blood clot will form in the area where the tooth was removed. It is important to be very careful with the site within the first 24-48 hours following extraction.

Inlays/Onlays

Inlays and onlays are sometimes referred to as partial crowns. These partial crowns are utilized when there is still a healthy enamel portion of the tooth. An inlay or onlay is a like a puzzle piece that will be fitted into the remaining portion of the tooth to help increase its strength. This piece is usually crafted out of porcelain or gold, but can also be made of a composite material. We will make the determination as to which restoration will work best in your specific situation.

Root Canal (Endodontics)

Root Canal, or endodontics, is the process of removing the nerves from the roots of a tooth. A root canal is often necessary to save an infected tooth. If an infected tooth is left alone for a long period of time, an abscess can form. An abscess will show up on an x-ray as a dark spot below the apex of the root. This is actually bone loss in the jaw. It is very important to catch this problem before it deteriorates too far.

Veneers

Porcelain veneers are extremely thin casings of ceramic that are bonded to the front of the patients tooth to create a new smile. Porcelain veneers are placed over the front of teeth that appear too small or large, slightly discolored, or simply are not cosmetically pleasing to the patient. For many patients, teeth may have chipped, become discolored, or are slightly crooked. For the majority of these patients, porcelain veneers can prove to be the perfect solution.

Whitening/Bleaching

Over time our teeth tend to become discolored or stained. Whether this is from smoking, coffee, or any other foods, a beautiful smile could be closer than you think. We offer a safe, inexpensive solution to an unsightly smile. Whitening your teeth is a very simple procedure that can be completed in relatively short period of time.

DIAGNODENT

We use a laser light that will detect decay at its smallest stage.

COMPLETE DENTURE

A full (complete) denture replaces natural teeth lost from periodontal disease, tooth decay. or injury and provides support for cheeks and lips. Without support from the denture, facial muscles can sag, making a person appear older.

PARTIAL DENTURE

The partial denture allows you to replace as many teeth as needed. This helps keep teeth form shifting and allows proper chewing of food. It also aids in support for cheeks and lips.