And, they have always made it a priority to research the newest and most effective techniques and materials in this rapidly changing field of restorative dentistry. Here are just a few examples:

Crowns are similar to veneers, except that they cover more of each tooth. These restorations are used to correct badly broken or worn teeth, large cavities, or teeth that have undergone root canal therapy. Crowns are often used to help strengthen weakened teeth. And, when adjacent crowns are connected together, they can stabilize loose teeth. They may be constructed using various porcelains, porcelain-fused-to-gold, or new high-strength porcelain. Fabricated in a laboratory, they provide precision, strength, enhanced esthetics, and a stable bite.

Four new high-strength porcelain crowns replaced this patient's old unaesthetic crowns.

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Bridges are very similar to crowns, except they are used to replace missing teeth. Generally made of porcelain or porcelain-fused-to-gold, they are attached to the adjacent teeth so that they span the gap created by the missing teeth. Like crowns, bridges can restore natural beauty and function to your smile.

Porcelain-fused-to-gold bridges replaced this patient's missing teeth and restored her function and beauty.

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Inlays and onlays are used to correct smaller cavities or replace mercury (amalgam) fillings. Old-fashioned mercury fillings tended to crack teeth and turn them a dark gray color. Inlays and onlays (which are larger and cover the cusps of the teeth) are usually made from porcelain or composite resin. They conserve much of your natural tooth structure and are virtually undetectable in the mouth.

Porcelain inlays were used to replace these failing mercury fillings.

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In complex dental treatment, a comprehensive approach is sometimes necessary using a combination of procedures. Many missing teeth or severe deterioration of most teeth may require a complete reconstruction using crowns and bridges. In other cases, excessive wear of all the teeth can lead to a loss in height of the face. Here, it may be necessary to place crowns or bridges on all of the teeth in order to open the bite and regain the lost height of the face. Prosthodontists are experts in managing the increased complexity of multiple tooth treatments. As prosthodontists, Dr. Bryant and Dr Junge are also trained in complex care management involving multiple specialists.

This patient had severely worn teeth, resulting in a loss of facial height. Other problems included stained teeth failing restorations and cavities. The solution included gum surgery to expose more tooth structure. Then, the lost facial height was restored and the other problems were repaired by placing porcelain crowns on all the teeth.

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