When We Use Prosthodontics
Prosthodontics is a specialized branch of dentistry that uses advanced techniques and artificial materials to repair, replace, support, or improve teeth and surrounding tissues. At our Spring, TX dental office, this approach is central to many of our restorative and cosmetic dentistry procedures. Prosthodontists are experts in:
- Dental Implants: Titanium posts placed into the jawbone to replace missing teeth, providing a strong foundation for crowns, bridges, or dentures.
- Crowns and Bridges: Custom-made restorations designed to restore damaged or missing teeth, improving both function and appearance.
- Dentures: Removable appliances that replace missing teeth, available as full or partial sets to suit individual needs.
- Veneers: Thin, durable coverings applied to the front surfaces of teeth to enhance their shape, color, and overall aesthetics.
- Full Mouth Reconstruction: A comprehensive treatment plan combining various procedures to restore the function, appearance, and health of the teeth and gums.
Our prosthodontic treatments are designed to enhance both the functionality and appearance of your smile, ensuring long-term health and comfort for your teeth and gums.
Restorative Dentistry Vs. Cosmetic Dentistry
When considering dental treatments, it’s important to understand the differences between restorative and cosmetic dentistry, as each serves a distinct purpose.
Restorative dentistry is primarily focused on restoring the function and health of the teeth and mouth. It aims to repair damage caused by issues such as decay, injury, or wear and tear. The goal is to return the teeth and gums to their natural, functional state, enabling them to perform essential tasks like chewing and speaking effectively. Restorative procedures are often necessary to maintain oral health and address problems that impact the longevity and functionality of the teeth.
In contrast, cosmetic dentistry is designed to enhance the appearance of the teeth and smile. While it can occasionally improve function, its main focus is on the aesthetics of the smile. This branch of dentistry is typically elective, aimed at boosting confidence and self-esteem by improving the overall look of the teeth and gums, such as their shape, size, and color.
The key differences between restorative and cosmetic dentistry lie in their goals and necessity. Restorative procedures are often required to maintain or restore oral health, while cosmetic procedures are generally optional and focus on aesthetic improvements. Although both fields can overlap—sometimes addressing both function and appearance—restorative dentistry prioritizes health and functionality, whereas cosmetic dentistry focuses on enhancing appearance.
Dental Implants
Dental implants offer a reliable and long-lasting solution for replacing missing teeth. Crafted from high-quality titanium, these implants fuse with your jawbone, forming a secure foundation that mimics the function and appearance of natural teeth. With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime, giving you the confidence to eat, speak, and smile without worry. Not only do they restore your smile, but they also help maintain your oral health, preserving the bone structure and preventing further tooth loss.
All-on-4 Implants
If you need to replace an entire arch of teeth, All-on-4 implants provide an innovative and efficient option. This method involves strategically placing four implants to secure a full set of permanent replacement teeth, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a reliable and minimally invasive solution. One of the standout benefits of All-on-4 Implants is the ability to receive your new teeth the same day as your implant surgery, allowing you to leave our office with a fully functional smile. As you heal, your smile will continue to improve, offering both aesthetic and functional benefits.
With All-on-4 implants, you no longer need to wait for months to enjoy your new teeth. This revolutionary solution often eliminates the need for bone grafting, making it a quicker and more comfortable option than traditional implants.
Dental Crowns & Bridges
Dental crowns are protective ceramic caps that cover a weakened or vulnerable natural tooth. They restore the tooth’s function and appearance, providing support and durability. When properly cared for, dental crowns can last 10-15 years, making them a long-lasting solution for those needing additional tooth protection.
A dental bridge, on the other hand, is a solution to replace one or more missing teeth. A traditional bridge uses your natural teeth as support, with dental crowns placed over them to anchor a replacement tooth. If multiple teeth need to be replaced, a dental bridge can still be used, but it may be supported by dental implants for added strength and stability. Together, crowns and bridges can restore both the appearance and functionality of your smile.
Dentures
Technically, “dentures” refers to any type of replacement tooth. However, most of the time, we use the term to refer to removable replacement teeth. Partial dentures replace one or more teeth–but less than a full arch. They are supported by your gums and held in place by your natural teeth.
Full dentures replace all the teeth in an arch–either the top or bottom teeth. Your gums support full dentures, and suction holds them in place.
We can use dental implants to support your dentures. Removable implant dentures are more comfortable and functional than traditional dentures. Fully secured implant dentures can be even better.
Smile Makeover with Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are one of the most effective tools in cosmetic dentistry, offering a transformative solution for enhancing the appearance of your smile. These thin, durable ceramic shells are bonded to the front of your teeth to create a flawless new surface. Veneers can be used to straighten, lengthen, repair, reshape, and whiten your teeth simultaneously, delivering a natural-looking, comfortable, and functional smile. With proper care, quality porcelain veneers can last 10-15 years or even longer, making them a long-term solution for improving your smile.
For those looking for a more comprehensive transformation, a smile makeover combines a variety of dental procedures to create a customized plan tailored to your unique needs. Whether you’re dealing with the effects of aging, decay, or trauma, or simply want the smile of your dreams, modern prosthodontics offers the ability to restore and enhance your smile to perfection.
Full Mouth Reconstruction
If your teeth require more than just cosmetic enhancements, full mouth reconstruction may be the solution you need. This comprehensive treatment restores both the appearance and function of your teeth, addressing visible damage and correcting underlying issues. Whether you’re dealing with tooth loss, severe wear, or damage from injury or decay, full mouth reconstruction can help. Additionally, this procedure can be essential for improving bite function and alleviating conditions like temporomandibular joint disorders (TMJ/TMD), which often cause discomfort and pain.
By combining restorative techniques such as dental implants, crowns, bridges, and veneers, full mouth reconstruction creates a lasting, natural-looking result that not only enhances your smile but also restores the full functionality of your teeth. This customized approach is designed to meet your unique needs, ensuring a balanced bite and improved oral health.
Prosthodontic Expertise
Many dental practices in the Houston area offer prosthodontics. At Stephens & Gatewood, our dentists have outstanding expertise that helps them deliver the high-quality results you deserve.
Among our dentists is the prosthodontist Dr. Neimar Sartori, who works in our Cypresswood office. A prosthodontist is a specialist in prosthodontics, with more training than general dentists in this area than is offered in basic dental school. In addition, Dr. Sartori has produced groundbreaking research that has advanced our understanding of achieving optimal results with bonded restorations like veneers and crowns.
But you don’t have to just accept our word about the quality of our work. Check out some of our patients’ extensive testimonials and reviews to see how happy people are with the results we achieved for them.
Looking for Prosthodontics?
If you’re looking for cosmetic or restorative dentistry in Houston, Stephens & Gatewood has the expertise to deliver the high-quality results you demand.
Want to learn how we can help you achieve the smile you’re looking for? Please call (281) 320-2000 or use our online form to request an appointment at either of our locations in the Houston area: Cypresswood or Auburn Lakes.
