Restorative Dentistry Houston, TX
At Hickerson & Associates, DDS. PC., our goal is to prevent dental problems before they occur. Unfortunately, this is not always possible due to poor oral hygiene, genetics, infrequent checkups, and other risk factors. This is why we also specialize in restorative dentistry. Our restorative services are designed to improve the function and aesthetics of your smile, as well as your overall oral health.
Dental Fillings
Dental fillings are the best way to restore minor to moderate instances of tooth decay. If we diagnose you with a cavity during your routine checkup, we will likely treat the tooth with a dental filling. Fillings can also be used to repair cracked, broken, or worn down teeth, specifically with the use of composite resin. Learn more about the types of dental fillings.
Dental Crowns
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that improves the structure and cosmetics of a damaged or decayed tooth. During the procedure, your tooth must be completely reshaped to accommodate the shape of the crown. Once the tooth is reshaped, we will permanently bond the crown to the enamel using a special adhesive. Many crowns are fabricated these days with porcelain, due to its unmatched aesthetics. Discover how a dental crown can be used on a damaged or decayed tooth.
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is a tooth replacement that typically consists of two dental crowns linked together by a pontic, or false tooth. A traditional bridge is supported by the two surrounding teeth, known as abutment teeth, that we reshape to receive the crowns. A bridge can also be supported by a series of dental implants if multiple adjacent teeth are missing. If you are missing a tooth, a bridge will prevent the remaining teeth from shifting out of their proper position. Read more about how a dental bridge can help if you have a missing tooth.
Dentures: Complete, Partial & Custom
A denture is a removable appliance that is usually used to replace one or more missing teeth. A partial denture usually attaches to the surrounding teeth with metal clasps. A complete denture consists of a flesh-colored acrylic base that supports a complete arch of prosthetic teeth. We offer custom-fit dentures as a more comfortable, functional, and durable solution. Discover how different types of removable dentures can replace missing teeth.
Inlays & Onlays
Inlays and onlays are ideal for areas of decay too large for a filling, but not large enough to require the placement of a dental crown. The restoration is considered an inlay if it is placed within the occlusal (bite) surface of a tooth. The restoration is considered an onlay if it extends beyond one or more of the occlusal cusps. Read more about inlays and onlays.
Implant Restoration
At Hickerson & Associates, DDS. PC., we specialize in several tooth replacement options to get your smile back on track. One of our most popular treatments involves implant restorations. Dental implants have truly revolutionized the way we correct the function and aesthetics of a missing tooth. Read more about implant restoration.
Dental Implants
A dental implant is a small titanium post that is surgically embedded into the jawbone. The implant serves as the root component of a prosthetic tooth. Once the implant is in place, it will fuse to the bone during the process of osseointegration. Osseointegration allows the implant to support a restoration against the strongest forces of your bite. For this reason, dental implants are widely considered to be the next best thing to your natural teeth. Learn more about the benefits of dental implants.
All-on-4® Treatment Concept
Are you missing all or most of the teeth on either or both of your upper or lower arches? Have you considered dental implants or dentures? Don’t know which one to choose? You might even want to upgrade your denture, but are reticent about getting so many implants. Why not go with a hybrid that combines the best aspects of each? The All-On-4® implant treatment concept is an innovative solution for individuals with significant tooth loss that might be right for you. Learn more about the All-on-4® Treatment Concept.
Root Canal
A root canal is a last-ditch effort to save a tooth from extraction. We may recommend a root canal if an infection has spread to the “pulpy” center of the tooth that contains nerve endings and other connective tissues. Once the infection has been removed, we fill the canals with a rubber-like material known as gutta-percha. A tooth that has received root canal treatment typically needs to be capped with a crown. Discover how a root canal could save a tooth from being extracted.
Tooth Extraction
There are two types of tooth extractions: simple and surgical. We perform a simple extraction on a tooth that has already erupted above the gumline. We perform a surgical extraction on a tooth that has become impacted, or has yet to erupt, such as wisdom teeth. Extraction may be necessary to prevent the spread of infection and other complications. Learn more about tooth extractions and when they are necessary.
Impacted Wisdom Tooth
The wisdom teeth are the third molars, and they are the last teeth in the mouth that will erupt. The first molars tend to erupt at around six years of age, while the second molars will erupt at around age 12. The wisdom teeth typically erupt at around the age of 18, but for many people, the teeth become impacted and don't actually move out through the gums at all.
The main problem with the wisdom teeth is that most people simply don't have enough room in the back of their mouths for them to fit. When they try to push through the gums, they could cause infection and pain, and they may also cause the rest of your teeth to shift in position. In severe cases, the wisdom teeth could even damage the nearby teeth or result in permanent nerve damage. Learn more about impacted wisdom tooth.
Schedule an Appointment
To learn more about our restorative services call (346) 352-1333, and schedule your appointment now! |