Biological Dentistry
- Welcome
- Meet Dr. Norton
- Meet the Team
- Patient Care
- Anti-anxiety Sedation
- Preventive Care
- Restorative Services
- Laser Dentistry
- Cosmetic Dentistry
- Smile Gallery
- Smile Checkup
- Technical Data
- Contact Us
- Make An Appointment
- Patient Forms
- Directions
Restorative Dentistry
Porcelain Crowns and Bridges
Porcelain crowns are the perfect restoration when a tooth is severely damaged, decayed or compromised aesthetically. If present, all old dental amalgam is removed and a build-up is done by bonding the remaining tooth structure together with a composite material. We can then prepare the tooth for the new crown while strengthening and preserving the remaining natural tooth structure. All of our crowns, bridges and inlays are made in the United States and do not contain harmful contaminants often used by dental laboratories in other countries.
With older crowns there is frequently an unsightly dark gray shadow or line next to the gum line. That line is due to the metal extending beyond the porcelain that was placed over it. Our handcrafted porcelain crowns do not show any gray discoloration on your gum tissue or teeth, and will not show any metallic line in the future. Our natural light-diffusing porcelain and dental artistry assures you a natural and healthy smile.
Replacing missing teeth:
Present-day dentistry offers several options for replacing missing teeth.
Implants
The implant structure is placed into the bone by an oral surgeon or periodontist. It is made from titanium and replaces the missing “root” of the tooth. In some instances it can have an implant crown attached to it immediately. In other instances, it will take a few months to establish stability within the bone. Dr. Norton can then replace the missing tooth with the implant crown. After these procedures are completed, no one will ever know your tooth was missing.
Implants can also be used for people who are missing all of their teeth. (use attached jpeg picture) Once the implants stabilize, Dr. Norton can fabricate implant-supported dentures. This minimizes movement of the dentures while you are eating. You are free to eat most anything you please.
If you have gaps in your smile or ill-fitting full or partial dentures, give us a call for a complimentary consultation to see if implants can work for you.
Bridges
Fixed (non-removable) bridgework is another method for replacing missing teeth. The teeth on either side of the space are prepared for crowns that act as anchors for the tooth replacement. Our dental laboratory will attach a false tooth, or teeth, to the crowns to fill in the space. Once fabricated, the bridge is cemented in place and blends in with your remaining natural teeth.
Partial Dentures
These are removable for cleaning. While they are the most economical means of replacing missing teeth they are not as natural feeling as implants or bridges. Partials can replace missing teeth on both sides of the mouth at the same time. The disadvantage to having partials and dentures is that they are removable and not fixed in place. This feeling can be disconcerting to some. Also, your taste sensation may be diminished.