Procedures

The following procedures are performed in our comprehensive dental office (for details, please click on the following web address: http://www.prosthodontics.org/patients/procedures.asp)

Crowns

Crowns ‘cap' a tooth to restore the normal function and appearance of the tooth. Crowns may be made of metal, porcelain fused to metal or all- ceramic (porcelain). Crowns are indicated for teeth with very large fillings, teeth that have had root canals, fractured teeth and misshapen and/or discolored teeth.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are typically made of titanium; they may be parallel-sided or tapered, and they may or may not have threads. These fixtures are placed into the jawbone and allowed to heal until they are ‘integrated' into the bone. Dental implants may be used to replace one, many or all of the patient's teeth.

Complete Dentures

Complete dentures are indicated when a patient no longer has any natural teeth. Because patients may experience difficulty wearing conventional dentures due to poor stability and decreased chewing function, dental implants may be used to improve the stability and retention of dentures.

Removable Partial Dentures

When a patient is missing multiple teeth, has weak anchor teeth or has no posterior teeth to anchor onto, a removable, partial denture is used to replace these teeth. Partial dentures typically are made of a metal framework and a plastic base with teeth. They must be removed for daily cleaning and at night.

Teeth Grinding/ Night Guards

Patients who grind their teeth are often not aware of this damaging habit. Because the forces exerted on both the teeth and the Temporomanibular Joint (TMJ) can be quite destructive, the dentist may recommend a custom-made night guard to protect the teeth and relieve pressure on the TMJ.

Hygiene

Regular teeth cleaning (Prophylaxis) by a dental hygienist is recommended to remove tartar (mineralized plaque) that may develop even with careful brushing and flossing, especially in areas that are difficult for a patient to reach. Professional cleaning includes tooth scaling and tooth polishing and debridement if too much tartar has accumulated. Regular, preventative hygiene maintenance can aid in avoiding future potential dental diseases or oral problems. It is recommended that patients to see the hygienist every 6-12 months.

Routine examination

A routine examination of the teeth is recommended at least every year, preferably twice a year. This exam is generally performed after a hygiene appointment. The exam may include select dental x-rays, examination of teeth to detect decay, inspection of existing fillings and or crowns for leaks or cracks, and evaluation of gum tissue condition.