
Cosmetic Dentistry Services | General Dentistry Services
Crowns
We now have the ability to make all-porcelain crowns for back teeth that are both functional and beautiful. Previously, crowns on back teeth were fabricated from both metal and porcelain, and could gray at the gumline or have problems chipping over time.
The new all porcelain crowns are stronger and can be bonded to the tooth instead of just being cemented. Bonding a crown means that there is a chemical connection between the crown and the tooth that is more resistant to leakage over time. Additionally, all porcelain crowns can be penetrated by x-ray beams. Therefore they can be evaluated on routine x-rays and any problems that might occur in the future can be dealt with earlier rather than later.
 An all porcelain crown |  Underside of an all porcelain crown, showing that the crown is made of one substance all the way through
|  All porcelain crowns on the two back teeth |
Dental Implants
Dental implants are changing the way people live. They are designed to provide a foundation for replacement teeth which look, feel and function like natural teeth. The person who has lost teeth regains the ability to eat virtually anything. Knowing that teeth appear natural and that facial contours will be preserved, they can smile with confidence. Implants can be used to replace a single missing tooth, several missing teeth, or a complete arch of missing teeth. Yes, implants can be used to give you teeth again, even after several years of wearing a complete denture!
Why dental implants?
When you lose several teeth (whether it's a new situation or something you have lived with for years) chances are you have never become fully accustomed to losing such a vital part of yourself. Once you learn about dental implants, you finally realize there is a way to improve your life; dental implants are your doorway to renewed self-confidence and peace of mind.
Implant crowns replacing congenitally missing teeth.
What are Dental Implants?
The implants themselves are tiny titanium posts, which are inserted into the jawbone where teeth are missing. These metal anchors act as tooth root substitutes. The bone bonds with the titanium, creating a strong foundation for artificial teeth. Small posts are then attached to the implant, which protrude through the gums. These posts provide stable anchors for artificial replacement teeth.
Implant crowns replacing missing back teeth.
The Procedure
Implants are a team effort between a surgeon and a restorative dentist. The surgeon places the titanium implant in the jaw bone, and also does initial tooth extractions and bone grafting if necessary. Then our office makes the teeth that are attached to the implants. We will also make any temporary tooth replacements needed during the implant process.
Implant crowns to restore function and increase chewing ability.
Bonding on back teeth
Bonding replacing an old mercury-silver filling.
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