Patients with dental concerns may have heard their dentist recommend prosthodontics during a consultation. This term refers to reconstructive dental solutions, in which restorative treatment involves rebuilding teeth, gums, or jawbone. These treatments have both restorative and cosmetic value. The dentists at Premier Dentistry Millenium Park, a dental practice in Chicago, IL, describe the dental conditions that prosthodontics can help with.
Tooth discoloration
Teeth can become yellowed, stained, or discolored for a variety of reasons. Some are faultless, such as aging, but other reasons for this issue come from staining agents in substances we put into our mouths. Treatment with prosthodontics can help patients whiten teeth regardless of causation.
Porcelain veneers are shell-like caps that fit over the front of teeth. These prosthetics are constructed with ideal color, size, and shape of teeth in mind. Patients with veneers can see a whiter smile. Veneers are resistant to staining and are permanently secured with bonding, making this treatment highly effective for patients.
Tooth loss
Patients with missing teeth can see a loss of normal eating and speaking abilities. They may also be unhappy with the aesthetics of their smile. Additionally, missing teeth can lead to bone loss in the jaw due to a lack of foundation. Dental implants, a prosthodontic treatment, can be a permanent solution for patients with missing teeth. A titanium post is implanted in the jaw for a secure foundation. Then, a dentist bonds a prosthetic tooth to the post to replace missing teeth. This treatment can replace single teeth, several teeth, or a full arch of teeth. Implants can also prevent bone loss and regenerate jawbone that has already deteriorated.
Gum disease
Gum disease occurs when bacteria enter the lining of the gums, causing inflammation and soreness. Patients with gum disease often notice bleeding from the gums while brushing their teeth. Gum disease can sometimes show no symptoms, but the infection can be dangerous if ignored. Advanced gum disease can cause gums to recede, leaving teeth exposed and risking tooth loss. Prosthodontic treatment through gum grafts or deep gum cleaning may be necessary for severe cases of gum disease to fully cure patients of infection.
Prosthodontics and more in Chicago, IL
Premier Dentistry Millenium Park offers prosthodontics and other restorative and cosmetic dental services to patients in Chicago, IL. Our practice also specializes in general and emergency dentistry. To schedule an appointment with us, contact our office online or reach us by phone at 312.481.6859.