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Restorative treatments for a winning smile Teeth that are decayed, broken, or missing contribute to additional dental problems. Adjacent teeth may weaken or change position. Eating can be difficult or painful. Missing teeth may result in wrinkles and an aged appearance. And we know it's hard to smile when you do not look or feel your best. Each patient is carefully evaluated to determine which restorative procedure(s) provide the best solution to the problem. New materials and techniques ensure good health and good looks. Fillings are tooth-colored restorations that "fill in" the void caused by decay (cavity). New composite materials now replace the older, unattractive silver-mercury amalgams for a natural looking, strong, and long lasting restoration. Fillings are used to restore small to medium sized cavities where the remaining tooth structure is sound and supported. Crowns are long term restorations used when a tooth is too weak or too fractured to support a filling. Crowns cover the entire tooth and are made of all porcelain, all metal, or porcelain fused to metal. We carefully evaluate each case to determine the best type of crown for each situation. Crowns will last for many, many years when properly cared for. Bridges consist of several crowns connected together and are used to replace missing teeth. They are non-removable permanent fixtures in the mouth and provide a natural looking, comfortable solution to an embarrassing dental problem. Partial Dentures are also used to replace missing teeth. They are held in place by framework that is a combination of metal and acrylic. Partials are not permanently fixed and are designed to be removed after eating and at night. Complete Dentures are used to replace all teeth in the upper and/or lower jaw. Though less satisfactory than other restorations, they are used when appropriate and when the patient is able to function well with them. Implants are artificial root structures placed inside the existing bone that become fused to the bone during healing. They extend above the gum tissue once healing is complete. Implants are used to help stabilize and retain dentures, create a base for crowns, and to support fixed bridgework.