Restore Strength and Function to Your Teeth
Dental problems can affect anyone — even those that are diligent about brushing, flossing and limiting consumption of sugary foods. When problems occur, it’s comforting to know that a talented dentist in your area can quickly restore your teeth to their optimal strength and function.
The field of restorative dentistry rehabilitates teeth that are damaged, decayed or even missing. This specialty is continually evolving, so it’s critical to work with a dentist that stays abreast of all recent advances.
Dr. Joshua Kennedy is the restorative dentist Anchorage trusts for top-quality care. He offers a wide range of options to rebuild, recreate or replace failing or missing teeth. Dr. Kennedy stays at the forefront of research and advances in dental technique and technology through continuing education courses, as evidenced by his being the first (and only) dentist in Alaska to obtain Mastership status with the Academy of General Dentistry. This knowledge allows him to provide his patients with lasting, beautiful tooth restorations.
Available Services
Rebuild Weak Teeth with Dental Crowns
Dr. Kennedy frequently uses dental crowns (also called “caps”) to rebuild and strengthen damaged, worn or decayed teeth. A crown completely encapsulates the exterior of the tooth, restoring it to a natural appearance, and sealing and protecting it from additional damage.
Dental crowns can be made of metal or porcelain materials or a combination of the two. Ideal candidates for dental crowns are individuals who have damaged teeth that cannot be properly treated with a dental filling; are in need of a root canal; or need to cover a dental implant or dental bridge.
Close Gaps with Dental Bridges
When a tooth falls out, one of the most common ways to close the gap is with a dental bridge. There are three main types of dental bridges. Traditional bridges are composed of two crowns that bookend an artificial tooth (known as a pontic). The crowns are placed on the teeth on either side of the gap, and the pontic fits into the gap in the middle. A small amount of tooth structure may be removed from the supporting (abutment) teeth to properly place the bridge.
Cantilever bridges consist of two crowns that sit side-by-side and a pontic. This type of bridge is used when there are teeth on only one side of the gap. Like traditional bridges, cantilever bridges may require removal of tooth structure from the abutment teeth. Resin-bonded bridges consist of an artificial tooth fused to metal bands or “wings.” The artificial tooth fits in the gap and the metal bands are attached to the backsides of the adjacent teeth. Unlike traditional and cantilever bridges, resin-bonded bridges do not require preparing the abutment teeth. They are usually used to repair the front teeth.
Repair Minor Blemishes with Dental Bonding
Dental bonding is a quick and cost-effective way to remedy slight dental imperfections. The process involves applying a tooth-colored composite resin material to one or more teeth to reshape them or cover up chips, cracks or stains. Bonding is also a great way to mask small spaces in between the teeth.
Replace Missing Teeth with Dental Implants
A dental implant replaces the entire tooth structure, from root to crown, to restore biting and chewing function and recreate the appearance of an attractive smile. The implant placement process can take anywhere from three to six months to complete, but with the proper care and attention, implants can last a lifetime. Dental implants are versatile as they can be used to replace one tooth, several teeth or all teeth. A dental implant can be used to support an individual crown, a dental bridge or even a set of dentures. They are a game changer in dentistry!
Dental implants are considered to be the most long-lasting solution to missing teeth. They consist of a titanium post that replaces the tooth root. The post is surgically inserted into the jawbone, providing a stable foundation for the artificial tooth that fits on top. With dental implants, the artificial teeth will not shift or slip out of the mouth, which is a concern with removable dentures. In addition, the post stimulates the jawbone and prevents it from shrinking. This in turn prevents tooth loss and supports the facial features for a normal-looking appearance. Another benefit of dental implants is they do not rely on the surrounding teeth for support. Unlike dental bridges, implants do not require the reshaping of the adjacent teeth, so your natural teeth are preserved as much as possible.
Restore Your Smile with Dentures and Partials
Dr. Kennedy often uses dentures to recreate the look and feel of natural teeth. They usually consist of replacement teeth attached to a gum-colored plastic base that rests on the gums. Complete dentures replace an entire arch of teeth and partial dentures replace clusters of missing teeth. Conventional dentures are removable devices that must be rinsed and cleaned daily. Implant-fixed dentures are dentures secured to dental implants, providing patients enhanced stability and comfort. Once in place, implant-fixed dentures can only be removed by a dentist.
Tooth Repair
Damaged or missing teeth compromise your ability to eat, speak, smile and perform everyday tasks. But with the help of our tooth repair and replacement services, you don’t have to spend another day feeling ashamed or uncomfortable because of damaged teeth.
Repairing damaged or lost teeth restores strength and stability to the mouth and reduces pain and sensitivity. Tooth repair also stops the remaining teeth from shifting position in the mouth and prevents the jawbone from deteriorating. Finally, tooth repair is crucial to maintaining a balanced, stable bite.
Depending on your specific needs, your tooth repair treatment may involve any of the procedures listed above or dental fillings, inlays or onlays. Or, Dr. Kennedy may recommend full mouth reconstruction, a multi-step treatment that consists of two or more restorative treatments. Dr. Kennedy will discuss all options in detail with you and work with you to determine the best course of treatment.
Treatment Tailored to Your Personal Dental Needs
At Turnagain Dental, Dr. Kennedy understands that no two patients are alike. He utilizes his dental expertise and the most advanced tools and technologies in the industry to provide personalized dental care to all patients. Whether you need to repair one tooth or replace several or all of your teeth, Dr. Kennedy and his experienced team will help you navigate all of your options so you can feel confident in your choices for dental care.
You deserve the comfort and confidence that comes from having a full set of healthy teeth. To learn more about your restorative dentistry options, please call or email Turnagain Dental today. Dr. Kennedy and our entire team look forward to meeting you!