Alexandria Restorative Dentistry

Restorative dentistry is a general term used to describe the restoration of missing or damaged teeth, such as those caused by cavities, chips, cracks, or other loss.

Depending on the seriousness of the damage, Dr. Geren may propose any of the following restorative dentistry solutions for your teeth:

1. Tooth-Colored Fillings
2. Inlays and Onlays
3. Porcelain Crowns
4. Dental Implants

 

Tooth-Colored fillings

Many dentists use silver amalgam or gold to fill teeth damage caused by cavities. Dr. Geren however offers composite tooth-colored fillings made of resin or porcelain, which provide the same protection against tooth decay, but without the unsightly color of metal fillings.

Inlays and onlays

While inlays and onlays are also to fill cavities, they are placed on the top of the tooth, permitting the cusp and the rest of the original tooth to remain. By retaining as much of the natural tooth structure, the onlay maintains the strength and appearance of the tooth and mouth as a whole.

Using CEREC technology, Dr. Geren can create and place porcelain inlays and onlays during a single appointment, meaning you can be on your way more quickly.

Porcelain Crowns

If the damage extends beyond the area a tooth colored filling or onlay can manage, Dr. Geren will need to turn to a more invasive restorative dentistry procedure. One such technique is to use porcelain crowns or dental caps. To apply a dental crown, Dr. Geren will remove more of the tooth’s enamel and replace it with a dental crown or cap to protect the nerves and roots. This retains more of the tooth’s natural strength. Unlike old metal crowns that were obviously different from the rest of your teeth, newer porcelain crowns are virtually identical to your other teeth as well as a strong permanent replacement.

Dental Implants

If a tooth cannot be saved, or if it was previously missing, dental implants provide a superior alternative to dentures and bridges. An implant is a titanium tooth root replacement that is anchored into the bone, below the gumline. Artificial teeth are then attached to these dental implants and are made from the same materials as porcelain crowns. The end result is strong, secure teeth that are nearly indistinguishable from your other natural teeth.

Same-Day Restorations

At most dental offices, restorative dentistry treatments take multiple visits. The dentist takes impressions during the first visit, but has to then send these molds to a dental lab for creation of the replacement, a process that can take days or weeks before it is returned. While temporaries given in the meantime typically provide adequate protection, they must then be removed and replaced with the permanent crown, inlay or veneer, a second appointment that takes more time and can add to mouth pain and discomfort.

In the Mt. Vernon Virginia area, restorative dentistry patients of Dr. Geren don’t have this problem because he uses CEREC technology, allowing him to mill and place permanent dental restorations during that first visit while you wait. It’s quick, it’s effective, and lets you get back to eating and drinking normally within hours.

To learn more about restorative dentistry, call Dr. Geren’s Alexandria office today. Ask for an initial comprehensive evaluation and learn if tooth-colored fillings, inlays, porcelain crowns or dental implants can apply to your specific situation.