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Porcelain 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 teeth.
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Teeth
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 brighter smile.
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Dental
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.
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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 abutments (crowns). 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 spur periodontal disease.
Bridges safeguard the integrity of existing teeth and
help maintain a healthy, vibrant smile.
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Composite
Bonding
Composite bonding is a technique used to improve the
appearance of your teeth. The term composite bonding
refers to any composite material, either a plastic or
resin, which is bonded to an existing tooth. Bonding
is ideal for fixing chipped or cracked teeth, hiding
discoloration on the tooth's surface, or reducing the
gaps between teeth. Whatever the specific intent, composite
bonding creates more aesthetically pleasing teeth and
a brighter smile. Unlike veneers or crowns, composite
bonding removes little if any of the original tooth.
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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.
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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 bright, healthy smile.
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Sedation
Dentistry
For anxious patients, dentistry
can be a nightmare. For these same patients, sedation
dentistry can be a dream come true. Sedation dentistry
is perfect for patients that suffer from a bad gag reflex,
sensitive teeth, or are merely nervous. For short procedures,
sometimes a light sedative is perfect. The patient can
remain completely awake and responsive. Patients facing
more extensive work may wish to sleep through the entire
operation. Either way, sedation can save the patient
time, trouble, and heartache.
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