Good dental hygiene practices and regular checkups can help prevent tooth decay. However, dental care may be necessary for other reasons, including dental services Raleigh NC emergencies and to restore teeth that have been damaged.

Getting dental care can be difficult for low-income people. Some people may qualify for Safety Net Dental Clinics or N.C. Medicaid and Health Choice for Children programs to cover dental expenses.

Fillings

Dental fillings help to prevent tooth decay and the associated sensitivity that may occur from bacterial overgrowth. A composite resin material is bonded to the affected tooth and then hardened with intense light rays.

Composite fillings are aesthetically pleasing and can be matched to the color of existing teeth, so they look natural. This makes them an excellent choice for the most visible areas of the mouth, such as the front teeth.

Amalgam fillings are a more traditional option that can be used to treat back teeth. They are strong and durable, and hold up well under chewing stress. They are also less costly than composite resin fillings.

Crowns

Dental crowns, or “dental caps,” are a versatile restoration that can restore the appearance and function of damaged teeth. They also protect weakened teeth from further damage and improve the overall health of the mouth and smile.

Dental caps are typically made of porcelain or ceramic that is matched to the color of natural teeth. This makes them a great option for front teeth that are damaged by decay or trauma.

To prepare a tooth for a crown, your dentist will first reshape it by removing a small amount of surface area. They will then take an impression or scan of the tooth with a special machine, and send it to a lab to create the crown.

Bridges

Dental bridges fill the gap left by missing teeth, restoring their function and beauty. They are composed of two parts: a false tooth called a pontic, and surrounding crowns that anchor them to the adjacent teeth (called abutments).

Dental bridges are designed to last a decade or more if well-maintained. They are made from advanced materials that can withstand the forces of daily biting.

Broken and missing teeth can cause a host of dental services Raleigh NC problems, from decreased self-esteem to chewing and speaking difficulties to increased susceptibility to gum disease and other diseases. Our dentists offer same-day dental bridges as part of their cosmetic and restorative dentistry services.

Teeth Whitening

Teeth whitening has become one of the most popular cosmetic dental treatments. Many over-the-counter (OTC) and in-office whitening products use peroxide to bleach intrinsic and extrinsic stains, lightening tooth color.

These whitening methods may cause teeth to become sensitive. This can be reduced by applying a desensitizing agent before whitening or using a low-concentration whitening product.

Aside from aging, stained and discolored teeth can be caused by consuming certain foods or drinks and by injuries to the gums or teeth. Bleaching can significantly improve the appearance of a person’s smile, increasing self-esteem and confidence. However, whitening doesn’t work on dentures, crowns, or fillings.

Veneers

Veneers can close gaps, correct misalignments and change the shape, length or color of teeth. They also offer an effective alternative to more extensive treatments, such as dental crowns. They require a minimal amount of enamel to be removed, preserving more of the natural tooth structure.

Before the procedure, dentists disinfect and numb the teeth with a local anesthetic. They remove a thin layer of enamel from the surface of each tooth on which a veneer will be placed, and they use dental cement to bond them to the tooth. They may offer temporary veneers while the permanent ones are being fabricated in a lab.

Implants

In addition to promoting overall oral health, cosmetic dental procedures like veneers, crowns, and bridges can repair damaged teeth; improve chewing, speaking, and biting functions; and restore a youthful appearance. We also treat crowded or misaligned teeth with clear aligners that are less noticeable than traditional braces.

Our office was one of the first to offer digital x-rays, which expose patients to 75-90% less radiation and can be viewed instantly on a computer monitor. We also follow all modern cleanliness and sterilization practices, including "autoclaving" instruments and using single-use items when appropriate.