Restorative Dentistry

Restorative Dentistry Procedures Offered at Klein Dental Arts in Maryville, TN

Complete & Partial Dentures

For individuals who have lost multiple or all of their teeth, dentures are an excellent restorative option. Complete dentures are used when all of the teeth in a particular arch are missing, while partial dentures are appropriate for patients who still have some natural teeth remaining but need additional support to replace lost teeth. Both options provide a functional and aesthetic solution, allowing patients to regain the ability to speak, chew, and smile with confidence.

• Complete Dentures

Complete dentures are custom-made to fit snugly over the gums, replacing an entire arch of missing teeth. When teeth are lost, the surrounding bone and gum tissue can shrink over time, which can affect the fit of the dentures. At Klein Dental Arts, we ensure that your dentures are crafted to your unique oral structure, providing a secure and comfortable fit.

The process of getting complete dentures typically involves several appointments. During the first visit, your dentist will take impressions of your mouth to create a mold for the dentures. Once the dentures are fabricated, they will be carefully adjusted for comfort and functionality. Some patients may need to return for additional adjustments to ensure the best possible fit. Modern dentures are designed to look and feel like natural teeth, providing both aesthetic benefits and practical advantages for eating and speaking.

• Partial Dentures

Partial dentures are an ideal solution for patients who still have some natural teeth but need to replace one or more missing teeth. A partial denture fills in the spaces left by missing teeth and prevents the remaining teeth from shifting out of place. These dentures are typically made from a combination of metal and acrylic, with a metal framework designed to hold the denture securely in place. The denture is then customized with tooth-colored materials to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth.

Partial dentures can be removable or fixed, depending on the specific needs of the patient. Removable partial dentures allow for easy cleaning and maintenance, while fixed partial dentures offer the advantage of greater stability. Your dentist will work with you to determine the best option based on the number of teeth missing, the condition of the remaining teeth, and your overall oral health.

Porcelain Dental Crowns

A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are often recommended for teeth that are severely decayed, cracked, or worn down, as they provide extra support and protection for the natural tooth. Porcelain dental crowns are especially popular due to their ability to mimic the appearance of natural teeth, offering both strength and an aesthetically pleasing result.

The Benefits of Porcelain Crowns

Porcelain crowns are favored for their natural appearance and durability. The porcelain material can be color-matched to your existing teeth, making it virtually indistinguishable from the surrounding natural teeth. Additionally, porcelain is highly resistant to staining, ensuring that your smile stays bright and beautiful.

Crowns are often used to restore teeth that have undergone root canal therapy, as well as to cover dental implants or to anchor bridges. They can also be used to protect weak teeth that are at risk of breaking, or to restore a tooth that has been severely worn down. Contact us to learn more.

Root Canal Therapy

Root canal therapy, often referred to as a root canal, is a restorative dental procedure used to treat infected or damaged teeth. The pulp, or the inner tissue of the tooth, can become inflamed or infected due to deep decay, trauma, or repeated dental procedures on the tooth. If left untreated, this infection can spread, leading to more serious problems such as an abscess or the loss of the tooth. Root canal therapy is designed to remove the infected pulp and restore the tooth to its functional state.

When Is Root Canal Therapy Needed?

Root canal therapy is needed when the pulp of the tooth becomes infected or inflamed, often due to decay that reaches the tooth's inner layers. Symptoms of an infected tooth may include:

• Severe tooth pain, especially when chewing or touching the tooth.
• Sensitivity to hot or cold temperatures that lingers even after the stimulus is removed.
• Swelling or tenderness in the gums near the affected tooth.
• Darkening or discoloration of the tooth.

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it's important to schedule an appointment with your dentist promptly. Root canal therapy can save a damaged tooth and prevent the need for extraction, allowing you to maintain your natural smile.

Tooth-Colored Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are one of the most common restorative procedures used to treat cavities. Traditional silver amalgam fillings are durable but can be noticeable, making some patients feel self-conscious about their appearance. Tooth-colored fillings, also known as composite resin fillings, are a popular alternative that blends seamlessly with the natural color of your teeth, providing a more aesthetic solution for tooth decay.

The Benefits of Tooth-Colored Fillings

Tooth-colored fillings are made from a blend of composite resin and glass particles, which can be color-matched to your natural teeth for a discreet and beautiful result. They are particularly useful for filling cavities in visible areas, such as the front teeth, where the appearance of silver fillings may be undesirable.

In addition to their aesthetic appeal, tooth-colored fillings also bond directly to the tooth structure, providing added strength and support. Unlike silver fillings, which can expand and contract with temperature changes, composite fillings are more stable and less likely to crack or break over time.

Conclusion

Restorative dentistry in Maryville, TN, offers a wide range of treatments that can address a variety of dental issues, from missing teeth and cavities to damaged or infected teeth. Whether you need complete or partial dentures, porcelain crowns, root canal therapy, or tooth-colored fillings, the team at Klein Dental Arts is dedicated to providing you with the best possible care and solutions to restore your smile.

Dr. Todd Klein, DDS and Dr. Blake Reed, DMD understand the importance of both the function and appearance of your teeth, and they work closely with each patient to develop a personalized treatment plan that meets their unique needs. With restorative dentistry, you can enjoy a healthier, more beautiful smile that enhances both your appearance and quality of life.

If you're experiencing dental issues or are simply looking to improve the health of your teeth, contact Klein Dental Arts in Maryville, TN, today to schedule a consultation. Let us help you achieve the smile you deserve.

Transform your smile with expert care at Klein Dental Arts! Call us today at 865-983-0941 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Todd Klein, DDS and Dr. Blake Reed, DMD at 1905 W Broadway Ave, Maryville, TN 37801.