Welcome!

We provide  a wide range of dental services, including Crowns, Bridges, Dentures, Partials, Dental Implants, Fillings and Periodontal Care.

Call for an appointment @ 813-963-0228

Missing Teeth?

Missing teeth can seriously affect not only your smile, but your overall dental health. There are three ways to restore a missing tooth:

1)     Bridges

2)     Dentures

3)     Implants

Dental Bridges:

A bridge is a structure that is cemented in your mouth and attached to the teeth adjacent to the missing tooth.  A bridge is typically completed in a two week period. The patient then functions normally and can chew his food proficiently.  A bridge is the quickest way to restore a missing tooth and is typically partially covered by insurance companies. They usually last from 8-15 years or longer.

What is the Bridge Process?

When a bridge is made, the length of the bridge is determined by the number of missing teeth and the quality of the root foundation of the adjacent teeth.  The adjacent teeth are prepared for crowns that have the same path of insertion.  An impression is then taken of these preparations and a bridge is constructed in a laboratory.  This process takes two weeks, provided that you are not having any discomfort, then the bridge is fitted and cemented into your mouth.  A temporary bridge is made at the initial appointment. You will wear the temporary bridge for the two week duration, while the permanent bridge is being made.  The temporary bridge stabilizes the area preventing teeth from shifting and realigning.  It also covers the nerves of the teeth and calms the area. We always try to be sure the patient is asymptomatic before the permanent bridge is seated.  If the teeth flare up during the temporary phase, then a root canal can be accomplished very readily prior to the seating of the bridge.   

Dentures:

A denture is a removable dental appliance replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissues.  There are complete dentures and partial dentures. A complete denture is used when all teeth are missing and can be conventional or immediate. A conventional denture is made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed. It is ready for placement  in about 4 to 6 weeks.  An immediate denture is made in advance and can be positioned as soon as the teeth are removed.  After the tissues shrink and heal,  adjustments will be needed.

Partial Dentures:

A removable partial denture consists of replacement teeth attached to a gum-colored plastic base, connected by metal framework that holds the denture in place in the mouth.  Partial dentures are used when one or more teeth remain in the upper or lower jaw.  A precision partial denture is removable and has internal attachments instead of clasps that attach to the adjacent crowns.

What is the Denture Process?

A series of impressions of your jaw are taken.  Molds are created, which are used for "try-in" appointments to ensure proper shape, color, and fit before the final denture is cast.  Once the final denture is fitted, you will be given care instructions. It is normal for you to experience increased saliva flow and to have some soreness or minor irritation.  This will diminish as your mouth adjusts to your new denture.