Do you have one or more missing teeth? Is a dental infection or bite disorder causing pain in your teeth, jaw, or gums? Revitalize your smile at Oxford Family Dentistry. Dr. Stefan Speck offers restorative dentistry solutions in his Oxford, PA dental office. Restorative dental care can help replace missing teeth, treat gum infections, and address bite problems.
Under the care of Dr. Speck, patients can improve the form and function of their bites. Our restorative dental solutions make it more comfortable for you to enjoy your daily life.
Restorative Dentistry in Oxford, PA
Restorative dental care helps patients eat, speak, and live comfortably without the pain caused by an unbalanced bite or infection:
Dental Bridge
Dental bridges are prosthetic teeth used to restore a row of missing teeth. Traditional dental bridges are secured by crown-capped adjacent natural teeth. Bridges can also be secured by dental implants. When dental bridges are supported by dental implants, they do not shift around the mouth. They also make it easier for patients to enjoy the foods they love.
Dental Crown
A tooth crown is a porcelain ceramic cap that can strengthen weakened and damaged teeth and also top dental implants. Dental crowns are great options for dental restorations and prosthetics because they look and feel like natural teeth. To create dental crowns, Dr. Speck takes dental impressions to create custom crowns.
Dental Implants
Implants are versatile and durable restorations that can be used to restore one or more missing teeth. They’re made of a titanium metal post, an abutment, and a crown. After the titanium post is implanted and fuses to the jawbone, an abutment and crown are added on top. Dental implants can also secure dental bridges and dentures.
Full and Partial Dentures
We recommend partial or full dentures to patients who have multiple missing teeth. Dentures can restore rows or full arches of lost teeth. When compared to traditional dentures, implant-secured dentures offer longer-lasting results. Implant-supported dentures also make it easier for patients to bite, chew, and speak naturally.
Gum Disease Treatment
Periodontitis, or gum disease, is a common yet damaging dental problem. Gum disease happens when harmful bacteria irritate and inflame the gums. Over time, gum disease can break down your soft tissues. We can provide scaling, root planing, and antibacterial rinses to remove bacteria and restore your gum health.
TMJ Treatment
When the temporomandibular joints that connect the jawbone to the skull are injured or under stress, patients can experience painful symptoms. TMJ disorders are bite disorders that lead to teeth clenching and grinding, facial pain, and jaw clicking and popping. We offer nightguards for patients who clench and grind their teeth because of TMJ.
Restorative Dental FAQs
Learn more with answers to common questions about restorative dentistry treatments in Oxford, PA:
Can I reverse gum disease?
Yes, in many cases, we can stop and reverse gum disease if it’s caught early. If you’re dealing with red, swollen, or bleeding gums, it may be a sign of early-stage gum disease, also known as gingivitis. At this stage, treatment can help your gums heal and return to a healthy state.
Our office offers treatments like scaling and root planing. These deep cleaning methods that remove plaque and tartar from below the gum line. We may also recommend using antibacterial rinses to kill harmful bacteria and reduce inflammation. These treatments help stop gum disease from getting worse and protect your gums from further damage.
If gum disease has already progressed to a more serious stage, called periodontitis, it can’t be completely reversed but it can still be managed. In these cases, we may recommend procedures like gum grafting or other types of oral surgery to restore the health of your gums and bone.
How long do dental implants last?
Dental implants last many years with the right care and maintenance. Implants are durable because they contain titanium posts that dentists cap off with porcelain ceramic dental crowns. They also help ensure that dental bridges and dentures last for many years.
Can I add dental implants to my dental bridge or dentures?
Yes, you can add dental implants to support a dental bridge or dentures. If you already have a bridge or dentures, we can work with you to plan your dental implant treatment. However, if your current bridge or denture is old, worn out, or doesn’t fit properly, we may recommend making a new one that works better with the implants.
Dental implants provide strong support and help your dental restorations last longer. They also help you bite, chew, and speak.
How long do implant dentures last?
Implant dentures can last for many years or even a lifetime. The titanium implants can last a lifetime, while you may need to replace the denture after 10 to 15 years due to wear and tear. Maintaining good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are essential for the longevity of implant dentures.
How do I know if I have severe TMJ?
Persistent, intense pain or discomfort in the jaw, face, or around the ear are symptoms of severe TMJ. Other symptoms can also include:
- Difficulty opening or closing your mouth.
- Jaw locking.
- Clicking or popping sounds when moving the jaw, headaches, and pain while chewing.
If you experience these symptoms for over three months and do not improve with treatments, you should consult a dental or medical professional for a proper evaluation and diagnosis.
Can a dentist complete a dental crown in one day?
Yes. Dr. Speck uses an advanced technology called CEREC. The technology allows him to design, create, and place a custom-made crown within a single appointment. CEREC uses computer-aided design and manufacturing (CAD/CAM) to create crowns. CEREC also eliminates the need for multiple visits and temporary crowns.
Contact Our Office Today
Do you want to improve your smile? Request a dental consultation with Dr. Speck online or call his dental office for care at 610.981.1320. If you have any further questions, please let our dental team know. They will be happy to help you.