1. I want dentures. Where do I start?
The best starting point to see if dentures are an option for you is to see your dentist or a prosthodontist, who is a specialist with an additional three years of training after dental school who focuses on the restoration and replacement of teeth, including dentures for even the most complex cases. Dr. Evans is a prosthodontist and will be able to help determine if another treatment option might be more suited to your particular situation.
2. What types of dentures are there?
Dentures may replace all the teeth or only some of the teeth. The dentures that replace all the teeth are known as complete dentures and they rest on the gums that cover the jawbones. The stability and retention of these dentures can be improved by attaching them to dental implants. Dentures that replace some but not all of the teeth are known as partial dentures. They attach to the teeth that are still present and also cover and rest on the gums and bone where the teeth are missing.
3. What are dental implants?
- Dental implants are metal cylinders made of titanium surgically placed in the jawbone where teeth are missing. They replace the roots of missing teeth and support single crowns, large bridges, and dentures. State-of-the-art technology makes it possible for these replacement teeth to look, feel and function like natural teeth.
4. Who is a good candidate for dental implants?
If you are missing one or more teeth, a restoration supported by a dental implant and/or implants is an option you must consider. In many instances it provides the best alternative for care.
5. What are the pros and cons of dental implants?
Several benefits exist to receiving dental implants. They are fixed solidly in the bone and allow teeth to be replaced in a manner that is closest to natural teeth. They have a long history of good success. However, dental implants require surgical procedures that usually include a small amount of discomfort and the time it takes for the implant to heal in the bone which can be a few months. Because a dental implant requires both a surgery and then making a replacement tooth that attaches to the implant, it is usually more expensive than a bridge when replacing a missing tooth.
6. What is a crown?
When a tooth exhibits moderate to severe destruction such as a large filling with recurrent decay or extensive wear, a crown, also known as a cap, gives you the strength, beauty, translucency and feel of a natural tooth. Made from a variety of materials, Dr. Evans can help determine the correct crown for your mouth.
7. What can be done to brighten my smile?
Tooth whitening lightens discolored enamel and dentin. Studies have shown that proper use of dentist-monitored, whitening systems can enhance your smile. Almost anyone can benefit. After a thorough examination and diagnosis Dr. Evans can determine if you are a good candidate for home whitening.
8. What are veneers?
Veneers may be an option if you are not happy with the alignment, color, or shape of your teeth. Following a slight preparation of the enamel, Dr. Evans bonds a thin layer of porcelain permanently to the front of your teeth. Veneers may be used to correct minor flaws of individual teeth, but often are used on multiple teeth to create a uniform smile.
9. What is an option for replacing a defective filling?
Unsightly fillings can be replaced by all-ceramic inlays, a tooth-colored material bonded to the tooth. Instead of using the more traditional cement, this bonding process may actually improve the strength and beauty of the tooth.
10. What are some options for replacing missing teeth?
From implants to permanent bridges, you have several options to replace missing teeth and blend them with your natural teeth. Using advanced materials and tooth-color matching techniques, Dr. Evans can recommend the appropriate method for optimal function and esthetics.