Dental Terms
Crowns/Caps - A crown is a precise, custom-fit restoration that rebuilds the shape and appearance of a tooth, and restores the tooth's
function. They can be fabricated from tooth-colored ceramic, gold alloys, or a combination of the two materials. They are permanently
cemented to the tooth.
Bridges - In this procedure, at least one tooth on either side of a missing tooth
is prepared for conventional crowns,
and a metal structure is fabricated incorporating the replacement tooth, and the 2 side crowns. The entire structure
of
3 or more teeth is then cemented to the retainer teeth.
Partial Dentures - When there are several missing teeth, or the supporting teeth are too weak to support a fixed bridge, a removable
partial denture can be made. Typically, a partial denture is made with a metal framework that attaches the partial denture to the
teeth, and plastic acrylic resin to aesthetically replace the missing teeth and gum tissue.
Dentures - When all natural teeth have been lost or removed, complete dentures are the conventional way to restore aesthetics and
function. Because there are no teeth to support or stailize the dentures, a good fit is essential. Chewing with complete dentures
can be difficult for some patients. In many cases, dentures can be attached to dental implants to provide stability and improve
function.
Dental Implants - Implants are becoming an increasingly popular method for replacing missing teeth. A dental implant is made of commercially
pure titanium metal, and is similar in size and shape to a tooth root. The implant is surgically placed into the jaw bone, and either
single crowns, fixed bridges, or removable dentures can be fabricated and attached to the implant(s).
Veneers - Porcelain veneers can be used to modify the shape or color of teeth. Minimal, or no removal of tooth structure is an advantage
of this technique. The veneers are bonded in place onto the existing tooth.
Teeth Whitening - The most effective and practical method of whitening is using custom fitted trays to carry the bleaching material
to the teeth. Visible results can be noticed within just af few days.
Cosmetic Dentistry - Many people desire to improve the appearance of their smile. Porcelain veneers, bonding of teeth colored material
to teeth, teeth whitening, and reshaping natural teeth are procedures commonly used to improve a smile.
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) Disorders - Pain in the face and jaw area may
be related to the system of muscles and
bones that affect the function of the TMJ. The pain can be purely muscular, or it can arise from arthritis, or a ligament problem
within the joint. Many of these disorders can be treated with basic therapies that include prescription medications, physical therapy
and orthotic devices to provide joint stability and comfort.
Teeth Grinding - Some people habitually grind their teeth at night, and may be unaware of the problem or incapable of stopping. Grinding
can be quite harmful to the teeth and temporomandibular joint. The damage to teeth can be slowed or stopped, through the use
of night guards that protect the teeth and alleviate pressure on the TMJ.
Sleep Apnea - When the mouth and throat muscles become too relaxed during sleep, the jaw can slide back and block the airway.
Through the use of two specialized mouth guards, the jaw can be repositioned forward. This maintains the airway, and allows for more
restful sleep.
Developmental Mouth Defects - Sometimes, growth of the teeth and jaws is
abnormal, and teeth may not form at all. Replacment
of missing teeth and restoring oral structures, is a unique challenge that often requires the coordination of multiple dental specialties.