Surgery and restoration
Repairing or replacing teeth so you can eat, speak, and smile comfortably.
Dental implants
StoneCreek offers implants to replace lost or damaged teeth. Here are answers to the most common questions.
What are implants?
Implants are surgical replacements for the roots of your teeth, capped with a crown at the surface. They’re made from light, biocompatible titanium that fuses to the bone, giving the look of natural, healthy teeth.
How do I know if implants are right for me?
You and your dentist will decide together. If you have missing teeth but otherwise decent oral health, you’re probably a good candidate. Because the implant must fuse to the bone, some medical issues and lifestyle habits can affect success.
What’s the difference between implants and dentures?
Implants look and feel more like natural teeth and are usually removable only by the dentist. Dentures are molded to fit your mouth but don’t replace tooth roots or fuse to the bone. They usually cost less than implants, need different cleaning, and can take a little longer to get used to.
How do I care for implants?
Much like natural teeth: brush, floss, and keep up with regular checkups. Your dentist will monitor your implants and can replace them if they become damaged or worn.
Dentures and partials
Dentures are removable artificial teeth for the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both. We use high-quality materials and precise techniques for a well-fitting, long-lasting denture. There are three types:
- Conventional dentures are made after all teeth are removed and the gums have healed.
- Immediate dentures are made before the teeth are extracted and delivered the same day, so you’re never without teeth.
- Overdentures are held in place by implants or a few prepared natural teeth. They preserve the jawbone and stay put, and implant-supported overdentures are the most comfortable, stable option most dentists recommend.
Partial dentures
Partials are replacement teeth set in a gum-colored base and held in place by your remaining natural teeth. Each one is custom-designed to fit your teeth and gums.
Crowns and bridges
Crowns
A crown, or cap, covers an existing tooth to restore its normal shape and size, making it stronger and better looking. Most crowns today are tooth-colored porcelain matched to your teeth, or a lighter shade if you’d like to brighten your smile. Crowns strengthen teeth with large or old fillings, protect weak or cracked teeth, restore broken teeth, anchor bridges, cover stained or oddly shaped teeth, and complete dental implants.
Bridges
A bridge fills the gap left by missing teeth with a false tooth held between crowns on the neighboring teeth or implants. It restores your smile and your ability to eat, drink, and speak properly.
It usually takes two visits. First, the anchor teeth are shaped, impressions are taken, and you get a temporary bridge. At the second visit, your dentist fits and adjusts the permanent bridge. With good care, a bridge should last 10 years or more.
Extractions
An extraction removes a tooth from its socket in the jawbone. Most often it’s done when a tooth can’t be saved because of decay, gum disease, or injury.
Root canals
A root canal is a common procedure that removes inflamed or infected pulp from inside a tooth to stop further decay and relieve pain. The pulp can become infected from decay, cracks, or repeated dental work.
Despite its reputation, a root canal relieves far more pain than it causes, and most patients are comfortable during and after. Lasting pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, swelling, or discoloration can all be signs you need one. If you notice any of these, call your StoneCreek office.
Questions about surgery and restoration?
Services vary by provider and office. Call the location you plan to visit for current availability.