PROSTHODONTICS



Prosthodontics involves the restoration or replacement of missing teeth and/or oral structures, such as gums and jawbones, with artificial replacements, such as dentures, bridges, or dental implants. 

Patients who would benefit from prosthodontic treatment include those who have lost one or more teeth due to injury, decay, or periodontal disease, those with congenital defects or abnormalities of the oral cavity, those who suffer from chronic orofacial pain, and those who desire to improve their smile and confidence. Prosthodontic treatment can also benefit patients with temporomandibular disorders, sleep apnea, and oral cancer.

Crowns, bridges, dentures, and implants are common dental restorations used to replace or restore missing or damaged teeth.

Crowns, also known as caps, are tooth-shaped coverings made of porcelain or ceramic that are placed over damaged or decayed teeth. Crowns can also be used to cover a tooth after a root canal or to improve the appearance of misshapen or discolored teeth. The process of getting a crown typically involves two appointments. During the first appointment, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay or damage and shaping it to fit the crown. Then, an impression of the prepared tooth is taken and sent to a dental lab to fabricate the crown. In the meantime, a temporary crown is placed over the prepared tooth. At the second appointment, the temporary crown is removed, and the permanent crown is cemented onto the tooth.

Bridges are dental restorations used to replace one or more missing teeth. A bridge consists of one or more artificial teeth called pontics, which are attached to dental crowns on either side of the gap left by the missing teeth. The crowns are cemented onto the adjacent healthy teeth, or in some cases, onto dental implants. Bridges can improve the appearance of your smile, restore your ability to chew and speak properly, and prevent remaining teeth from shifting out of position. Like crowns, getting a bridge typically involves two appointments, one to prepare the supporting teeth and take impressions, and one to cement the bridge in place.

Dental implants are titanium posts that are surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as a stable and permanent foundation for dental restorations such as crowns, bridges, or dentures. Implants offer several benefits over traditional restorations, including improved function, durability, and esthetics. Dental implants are designed to look and function like natural teeth, providing a more natural and comfortable fit.

Dentures, are removable prosthetic devices that replace some or all of the natural teeth in the upper or lower jaw. Dentures can be either partial or complete, and they are typically made of acrylic resin or porcelain. Dentures can improve chewing ability, speech, and esthetics, but they require special care and may take some time to get used to wearing.

Crowns, Bridges, Implants and Dentures all can help restore oral function, comfort, and appearance for patients with missing teeth. The choice of which option to pursue depends on a patient's individual needs and preferences, and a dental professional can help guide patient in making an informed decision. 

  • Porcelain fused to metal (PFM) crown
  • Ceramic crowns
  • Gold crowns
  • Bridges
  • Dentures