top of page

Restorations

Downtown Minneapolis Dentist

Reasons for composite fillings:

 

  • Chipped teeth.
  • Closing space between two teeth.
  • Cracked or broken teeth.
  • Decayed teeth.
  • Worn teeth.

 

Composite Fillings   What is a composite filling?

 

A composite (tooth colored) filling is used to repair a tooth that is affected by decay, cracks, fractures, etc.  The decayed or affected portion of the tooth will be removed and then filled with a composite filling.

 

There are many types of filling materials available, each with their own advantages and disadvantages.  You and your dentist can discuss the best options for restoring your teeth.  Composite fillings, along with silver amalgam fillings, are the most widely used today.  Because composite fillings are tooth colored, they can be closely matched to the color of existing teeth and are more aesthetically suited for use in front teeth or the more visible areas of the teeth.

 

As with most dental restorations, composite fillings are not permanent and may someday have to be replaced.  They are very durable and will last many years, giving you a long lasting, beautiful smile.

 

How are composite fillings placed?

 

Composite fillings are usually placed in one appointment.  While the tooth is numb, your dentist will remove decay as needed.  The space will then be thoroughly cleaned and carefully prepared before the new filling is placed.  If the decay was near the nerve of the tooth, a special medication will be applied for added protection.  The composite filling will then be precisely placed, shaped, and polished, restoring your tooth to its original shape and function.

 

It is normal to experience temperature sensitivity when composite fillings are first placed, however this will subside within a couple weeks to a couple months after your tooth adjusts to the new filling.

 

You will be given care instructions at the conclusion of your treatment.  Good oral hygiene practices, eating habits, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new fillings.

Crowns (Caps)

 

A crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface, restoring it to its original shape and size.  A crown protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations.

Although there are several types of crowns, porcelain (tooth colored crown) are the most popular.  They are highly durable and will last many years, but like most dental restorations, they may eventually need to be replaced.  Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color of your teeth, giving you a long-lasting, beautiful smile.

 

What does getting a crown involve?

 

A crown procedure can require one or two appointments, depending on the tooth.  If two appointments are required, your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate molds (or impressions) that will be used to create your custom crown.  A mold will also be used to create a temporary crown which will stay on your tooth for approximately two weeks until your new crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory.

 

While the tooth is numb, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown.  At your second appointment, your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate.

 

At your second appointment your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate.

You will be given care instructions and encouraged to have regular dental visits to check your new crown.

Downtown Minneapolis Dentist
Reasons for crowns:

 

  • Broken or fractured teeth.
  • Cosmetic enhancement.
  • Decayed teeth.
  • Fractured fillings.
  • Large fillings.
  • Tooth has a root canal.

 

Downtown Minneapolis Dentist
Reasons for a fixed bridge:

 

  • Fill space of missing teeth.

  • Maintain facial shape.

  • Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position.

  • Restore chewing and speaking ability.

  • Restore your smile.

  • Upgrade from a removable partial denture to a permanent dental appliance.

Fixed Bridges

 

A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) appliance and is an excellent way to replace missing teeth.

There are several types of bridges.  You and your dentist will discuss the best options for your particular case.  The “traditional bridge” is the most popular type and is usually made of porcelain fused to metal.  This type of bridge consists of two crowns that go over two anchoring teeth (abutment teeth) and are attached to pontics (artificial teeth), filling the gap created by one or more missing teeth. 

 

Dental bridges are highly durable and will last many years; however, they may need replacement or need to be re-cemented due to normal wear.

 

What does getting a fixed bridge involve?

 

Getting a bridge usually requires two or more visits.  While the teeth are numb, the two anchoring teeth are prepared by removing a portion of enamel to allow for a crown.  Next, a highly accurate impression (mold) is made which will be sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge will be fabricated.  In addition, a temporary bridge will be made and worn for two weeks until your next appointment.

 

At the second visit, your permanent bridge will be carefully checked, adjusted, and cemented to achieve a proper fit.  Occasionally your dentist may only temporarily cement the bridge, allowing your teeth and tissue time to get used to the new bridge.  The new bridge will be permanently cemented at a later time.

You will receive care instructions at the conclusion of the procedure.  Proper brushing, flossing, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new, permanent bridge.

Dentures & Partial Dentures

 

A denture is a removable dental appliance and a replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissue. They are made to resemble your natural teeth and enhance your smile.

 

There are two types of dentures- “complete” and “partial”. Complete dentures are used when all of the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. A partial denture fills in the spaces created by missing teeth and also prevents other teeth from shifting. 

 

A complete denture can either be “conventional” or “immediate.” A conventional type is made by our lab after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has been healed (usually takes 4 to 6 weeks).  Immediate dentures are made in advance and immediately placed after the teeth are removed. This prevents the patient from having to be without teeth during the healing process. Adjustments will have to be made while tissues shrink and heal. 

 

Dentures are very durable appliances. They last many years but may have to be remade, repaired, or readjusted due to normal wear.

Downtown Minneapolis Dentist
Downtown Minneapolis Dentist
Reasons for dental implants:

 

  • Replace one or more missing teeth without affecting adjacent teeth.

  • Resolve joint pain or bite problems caused by teeth shifting into missing tooth space.

  • Restore a patient’s confident smile.

  • Restore chewing, speech, and digestion.

  • Support a bridge or denture, making them more secure and comfortable.

Dental Implants

 

Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth and provide a fixed solution to having removable partial or complete dentures.  Implants provide excellent support and stability for these dental appliances.

 

Dental implants are artificial roots (usually titanium) that are surgically placed into the upper or lower jaw bone by an Oral Surgeon or Periodontist.  Your dentist will make crowns that fit into the artificial roots.  The teeth attached to implants are very natural looking and often enhance or restore a patient’s smile!

 

Dental implants are very strong, stable, and durable and will last many years.  On occasion, they will have to be re-tightened or replaced due to normal wear.

bottom of page