Veneers
Veneers are thin shells that are laid onto the teeth and
bonded to the surface. Although they can be made of different
materials, porcelain is frequently used because of its durability and
realistic appearance. Veneers are a more conservative alternative to
crowns since they require less removal of the tooth's original surface.
With veneers in place, patients can expect straighter, whiter, and more
even looking teeth.
Crowns
When a tooth is cracked, decayed, or damaged, a crown may need to be
fitted onto the tooth. A crown is a permanent covering that fits over
the original tooth. Crowns can be made of porcelain, gold and other
metals, acrylic resin, or an amalgam (a mix) of these materials.
Porcelain crowns typically have the most realistic appearance, although
they tend to be less durable than other materials. Crowns can whiten,
reshape, and realign existing teeth, adding to a healthy and vibrant
smile.
Tooth Whitening
Regardless of how well you care for your teeth, it is inevitable that,
over time, some yellowing or discoloration will occur. This gradual
change can be caused by aging, substances that stain your teeth (such
as coffee and tobacco), excessive fluoride, or the deterioration of a
tooth's nerve. A tooth whitening treatment can be performed either as
an at-home, dentist-supervised process or in the dentist's chair. While
neither of these methods stops future discoloration, these treatments
bring about whiter teeth and help create a more vibrant smile.
Dental Implants
View implants
For individuals who wish to replace missing teeth, dental implants may
be an effective long-term solution. Implants provide greater structural
support and last longer than either bridges or dentures. Implants serve
as the artificial root to which new teeth are bonded. They are
typically constructed of titanium, a strong and safe material that
effectively attaches to bone. The procedure to insert dental implants
typically involve three steps: the implant insertion stage,
osseointegration (the period of healing for the jawbone), and the
attachment of the restoration or new tooth.
Composite Fillings
Until recently, dentists filled and sealed cavities exclusively using a
silver and mercury amalgam. Unfortunately, these fillings (or
restorations) often weaken teeth due to the large amount of the
original tooth that has to be removed. Modern dentistry has
increasingly turned to composite fillings as a strong, safe and more
natural looking alternative. Composite fillings utilize a soft white
plastic substance that includes a hardening agent.
Bridges
A bridge is a device used to fill the space where a tooth has fallen
out or been removed. A typical bridge consists of a pontic (a filler
tooth) that is attached to two surrounding crowns (abutments). Once
complete, this bridge structure is bonded into the mouth. Without the
use of a bridge, spaces in the mouth from missing teeth can cause
multiple teeth to shift, lead to occlusion (biting) and/or jaw
problems, and may spur periodontal disease. Bridges safeguard the
integrity of existing teeth and help maintain a healthy, vibrant smile.
Dentures
Over time, people's teeth tend to naturally deteriorate. When a tooth
has deteriorated substantially, it often needs to be extracted. And
when multiple teeth are extracted, dentures may be the most appropriate
solution. Dentures can create a natural and healthy looking set of
teeth. As well, a properly fitting set of dentures can greatly enhance
your smile and sense of self-esteem.