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TOOTH REPLACEMENT « DENTAL CARE

Crowns

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A crown (sometimes referred to as a cap) is a full coverage restoration that restores the anatomical surfaces of a damaged or fractured tooth to their original contour and function. The anatomical surfaces are the parts of the tooth that you can see above the gum line.

Typically, this type of restoration is recommended when there is very little tooth structure left to restore. The retention of filling material is poor without adequate surface to which the material will adhere.

This results in the tooth requiring both constant and frequent repair.

A crown is permanently cemented onto the prepared tooth structure. This type of restorative procedure is often a dentist’s treatment of choice because of the excellent clinical results achieved in creating a strong, permanent restoration. The aesthetic quality of these restorations enhances the overall appearance of the smile, one of our most important communicative features.

The two types of crowns that are commonly used are:

  1. Porcelain fused to metal - This type of crown is often used on posterior teeth due to the strength that the semi-precious metal can provide during chewing. The veneer or facing of the tooth consists of porcelain that gives the restoration a natural looking quality.
  2. Porcelain jacket crown - This is a very thin metal shell covered by layers of porcelain to resemble the shading and translucency of a natural tooth. This restoration is often recommended for anterior teeth.

A patient will benefit from this procedure by having a permanently restored, functional and aesthetically pleasing tooth that blends in with the remainder of your natural teeth.

Bridges

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Every tooth in your mouth provides support, structure and function to the jaw. Absence of even a single tooth can cause the adjacent teeth to drift into the position of the missing tooth. Sometimes only the roots will drift causing pressure on neighbouring teeth and reducing the support of other teeth. This drifting is only evident on a dental x-ray.

A bridge is a dental prosthesis that is used to replace one or more missing teeth in the same arch. A bridge is permanently cemented into the mouth; therefore, you can not remove it. It provides solid support to the structure of the jaw and prevents adjacent teeth from shifting.

Although a partial removal denture can also replace a missing tooth, it can compromise the health of the underlying gum tissue and cause bone loss. A permanently cemented fixed bridge will provide support to the jaw and protect the integrity of the gums. You will benefit by enjoying a permanently restored, functional and aesthetically pleasing bridge that replaces the missing tooth or teeth within the dental arch. You will never have to be concerned with ill fitting partial dentures again.

Dental Implants

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A dental implant is a restorative procedure that attaches artificial teeth to anchors that are surgically embedded in the bone. Dental implants can replace one or more teeth provide support for a partial denture, increase support and stability for a full lower denture and increase patient comfort and confidence. Implant procedures are complex and may take up to 9 months to complete.

There is some degree of risk as with any type of surgical procedure and this type of treatment will not be recommended to everyone. A good candidate for implant procedure would be one who has adequate bone structure and does not have a serious medical condition. The financial investment is greater than that for other types of restorative procedures such as bridges.

During the first stage of treatment the surgical site will be prepared. An implant cylinder is inserted into the receptor site. A sterile surgical screw is placed within the receptor. The screw is often made from titanium because it is very compatible with bone and oral tissues. The soft tissue is closed and the surgical site is allowed to heal for 10-14 days. It may take as long as 3 to 6 months for the bone to heal or integrate with the implant.

After the tissues and bone have completely healed, the second stage of the procedure consists of removing the soft tissue from the surrounding area and uncovering the sealing screw. An attachment post is screwed into the implant that now extends above the gum line. The soft tissues are again allowed to heal for 10-14 days during which time the dental prosthesis is being made. On the final appointment the dental prosthesis will be attached to the posts resulting in a strong permanent restoration that is aesthetically pleasing as well as functional.

A patient who is considering dental implant procedure should gather as much information as possible before treatment is commenced. The patient should have a realistic and informed opinion of what the expected results will be.

Dentures / Partials

Dentures

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Losing all or some of your teeth does not mean losing your self-esteem or confidence. Whether you have lost teeth due to disease or because of an accident, there are many options to enhancing or creating the smile that is right for you.

If you are missing one or more teeth, it is important to fill those spaces. Every tooth should have an opposing tooth to give you a full and balanced bite. Without a full compliment of teeth, you may be over traumatizing some or all of your remaining teeth. Without an opposing tooth in your bite, the tooth could erupt out of the supporting bone.

There are many treatment options available to alter or adjust existing dentures until you are ready to have new ones made. During your initial consultation you will be advised on whether you require a complete replacement, minor adjusting or a total transformation altogether to your existing dentures. Your Denturist or dentist will clearly explain and ensure you understand all of your options so you can make an informed decision about your treatment.

Today's technology allows the Denturist to create a smile that is natural and confident. A denture doesn't have to look like a denture any more. High quality teeth made with layers of different acrylics are as close to your natural teeth as can be. It is nearly impossible to tell them from the real thing allowing you to smile with complete confidence.

Full Dentures

A full denture is removable and is prescribed when all the teeth in one or both of your arches are missing. First, the Denturist takes an accurate measurement of your face. Next, the shape and the shade of each tooth are carefully selected creating a custom smile designed especially for you.

Partials

A partial denture is a removable dental appliance supported by your natural teeth. It may be required where there are one or more missing teeth. Many options are available and often a partial denture is prescribed. A crown or bridge may be the preferred treatment and your Dentist or Denturist will advise you on the best treatment for you.

Today, a wide variety of partial denture designs is available. Most exciting is the INVISIBLE PARTIAL. This partial denture is virtually invisible by blending into your natural tissues and attaches to your existing teeth with out any unsightly metal clasps. The invisible partial is completely flexible, virtually unbreakableand utilizes the highest quality of materials available to ensure stability and resistance to excessive wear.

Missing Tooth

Below are possible treatments for a missing tooth.

Click on the links below to learn more about your treatment options.

Missing Teeth

Below are possible treatments for missing teeth.

Click on the links below to learn more about your treatment options.

View our dental animations on Multiple Missing Teeth:



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