Restorative dentistry
We offer many solutions to improve the function and health of your smile. Whether dealing with a cavity, broken or cracked tooth, or a simple cosmetic repair we can give you the best restorative dental treatment or dental bonding in Charlotte, NC–and more.
Tooth colored fillings
If a filling is required we use the latest in bonding techniques that will give you a long lasting aesthetic tooth colored filling. We offer the best dental bonding Charlotte NC. We are a mercury free office and while we are not against having silver fillings we do not place them. Silver filling expand over time and can cause fractures in teeth, especially back molars. This normally leads to the tooth cracking and needing a crown. Tooth colored fillings actually act to bring the tooth together rather than push it apart. While these are more technique sensitive and take longer to place, composite fillings give you a stronger and more cosmetic option than silver.Restorative Crowns
If a tooth is broken or the decay is too large for a filling then a crown is usually recommended. A crown is used to cover the entire tooth to protect it against breaking which is more likely to occur when a tooth has been weakened by a large filling or decay. Crowns are almost always recommended on teeth that have had root canals. Root canals remove tooth structure in the middle and therefore weaken the overall strength of the tooth.Worn teeth from grinding can also need crowns. When wear occurs over time tooth structure is lost and normally there are small fracture lines in teeth that can lead to large fractures down the tooth root which can cause the tooth to have to be extracted. Crowns can be placed over the tooth to surround the fracture to help keep it from propagating.
Additional Information
Bridges
If you’re missing a tooth entirely, bridges are a great option for restoring your smile. A bridge is a small piece of hardware that “bridges” the gap between missing teeth. A bridge can be used to link the gap between multiple missing teeth as well. Also, bridges can be used with crowns on both sides, cementing the bridge permanently into place. Bridges help distribute your biting force properly by replacing missing teeth, and they also prevent remaining teeth moving out of position too far. There are three type of bridges:- Traditional bridges – This type of bridge calls for creating a crown or implant on either side of the missing tooth. A pontic is then placed in between them. This type of bridge is the most common, and they are typically made of metal fused to porcelain.
- Cantilever bridges – These bridges support the fake tooth from one end, like a Cantilever bridge. Cantilever bridges typically are used to replace only one missing tooth.
- Maryland bonded bridges – Also known as resin-bonded bridges, these teeth are made of plastic and supported by a framework made of metal. There are metal wings on either side of the bridge, which are then bonded to existing teeth with resin.
No matter your situation, reach out to Southview Dentistry to discuss how a bridge can restore your smile to as good as new!
Amazing experience, I never want to go to another dentist! I had a ten-year-old Marilyn Bridge that broke and they took on the job of replacing the bridge. They did a fantastic job - highlights include being clear and consistent in communication, very attentive and reassuring at each appointment and in explaining exactly what they were doing, and overall a wonderful final experience. Dr. Kelly did a fabulous job matching the tooth to the rest of my smile.
Implants
Those who wish to replace a single tooth may wish to explore dental implants. This type of restorative dentistry calls for implanting a small metal post into the bone socket. Then, the metal post is covered with a crown. This creates a sturdy tooth that is easily passable as a real tooth.Implants carry with them multiple benefits and advantages over other restorative options. Primarily, they look and feel like real teeth. Since they are implanted into your jaw, they are permanent. Unlike other restorative options, dental implants do not impact your speech patterns. Additionally, there is no discomfort, as the implants become a part of you. One of the biggest benefits of dental implants is that eating becomes much easier. You will be able to chew your food just like you always have, without worrying about your implant.
Dental implants are available to anyone that is healthy enough to undergo oral surgery. Healthy bones and gums are considered a requirement. Heavy smokers or those with chronic health issues may not be able to receive dental implants.
Dentures
This removable replacement for missing teeth is one of the most popular types of restorative dentistry. Dentures are typically made of acrylic resin, and often have metal attachments. There are two types of dentures: complete and partial. Complete dentures are designed to replace every tooth, while partial dentures only replace a selection of teeth.Dentures are made over the course of several appointments spread out over a few weeks. The process begins by making an impression of your jaw, taking measurements, and determining how much space is between your jaws. A model is then created out of wax or plastic as a ‘rough draft,’ which is then fitted and customized for your mouth. Then, the dentures are finally cast and any necessary adjustments are made.
