In the past, cavities could only be treated with silver metal fillings. The color of these fillings looked nothing like natural teeth, and called attention to the filled teeth. Fortunately, we have other options today and metal fillings can now be a thing of the past when replaced with strong, durable, natural-looking tooth colored fillings.
Comprised of decay and damage-resistant porcelain or resin, tooth-colored fillings can be permanently bonded to the teeth as a treatment for cavities. Tooth-colored fillings are far more aesthetically pleasing and equally functional as traditional
restorations. For patients with existing metal fillings, replacement is an excellent option. During replacement treatment, we will remove unattractive metal fillings and replace them with the more natural-looking white composite restorations.
CROWNS & BRIDGES
Dental problems such as misaligned, cracked, or damaged teeth can be corrected with dental crowns. Sometimes called a “cap” the crown fits over the tooth and can quickly and effectively repair common tooth damage. Crowns can increase functionality, reduce the pain associated with damaged teeth, and also prevent further damage to the tooth by increasing it’s strength. The aesthetic benefits of crowns are also numerous – patients will have a brighter smile without the chips and decay associated with common dental problems. Our practice offers tooth-colored crowns that can be matched to existing teeth for the most natural looking smile.
Bridges are used to permanently fill in gaps left by missing teeth. Literally bridging gaps in between the teeth, fixed bridges can significantly reduce the pain caused by badly damaged or misaligned teeth, as well as increase bite strength and improve your smile. As with crowns, the porcelain can be matched in shade to your existing natural teeth. Most patients find that the convenience of the secure, permanent fixed bridge to be superior to that of removable artificial teeth.
PORCELAIN VENEERS
Porcelain veneers are an excellent option for patients with cracked, chipped, misaligned, or otherwise damaged teeth. Veneers are made of thin shells of tooth-colored porcelain that are permanently bonded to the teeth to repair common tooth damage. Dental veneers are individually made in a lab and matched to the color of existing natural teeth. Both functionally and aesthetically pleasing, veneers can improve your smile and correct simple bite problems. Porcelain Veneers are strong and unlike regular bonding, are resistant to decay, chips, and stains. This means that your new, beautiful smile will be easy to maintain.
MINOR ORTHODONTICS
Dr. Appleton has taken continuing education courses in Orthodontics. Presented with the American Association of Orthodontics award in 1997 for exceptional interest in the development of the oro-facial complex, Dr. Appleton has always been amazed what can be done with orthodontics. For simple cases, appliances can be made to reduce the crowding of children’s developing dentitions and braces can be used to straighten misaligned teeth. For more severe orthodontic problems, we work with various local orthodontists.
