Prosthodontics

A prosthodontist is in essence an architect, who formulates a comprehensive treatment plan and informs the patient as to what is possible.  Missing or defective teeth can be extremely detrimental to self-esteem and self-confidence.  Using the latest technology, a prosthodontist is able to fill these gaps with functional, natural-looking teeth that boost confidence and enhance the smile.

There are many reasons why a prosthodontist may be consulted, including (but not limited to):

• Creation of partial or full sets of dentures.
• Desire to whiten the teeth or improve the aesthetics of the smile.
• Filling gaps created by one or more missing teeth.
• Interest in dental implants.

What treatments can the prosthodontist perform?

Prosthodontic treatments are designed to be functional, long lasting and pleasing to the eye.  These procedures can only be completed on generally healthy teeth.  Issues like gum disease need to be controlled before prosthodontic treatments can begin.

There are an ever-increasing number of hi-tech prosthodontic treatments available including the following:

Dental Implants – Implants are designed to replace the natural teeth in the best possible way.  Titanium roots are implanted in the jawbone in the same way as natural tooth roots.  Implants look and feel the same as natural teeth.

Dental Veneers – Veneers are porcelain/ceramic covers that are bonded to the natural teeth.  Veneers can instantly solve problems like uneven teeth, stained teeth, and chips and damage caused by general wear and tear.

Dental Crowns – Prosthetic crowns are generally made from porcelain, metal or a combination of the two.  They have been designed to mimic the natural crown (surface of the tooth) and can last for up to a decade, and possibly longer.

Dental Bridges – Conventional and cantilever bridges are used to support a prosthetic tooth.  The natural teeth can support the bridge if they are in good condition, or dental implants may be used as anchors.

Complete Dentures – A complete set of dentures can be created for people who have no teeth due to gum disease or trauma.  Complete dentures restore functionality to the mouth and make chewing and speaking easier.

Partial Dentures – Where many teeth have been lost, removable or fixed partial dentures can prove to be an excellent option.  They enhance the aesthetics of the smile in addition to improving chewing abilities.

What other problems can a prosthodontist treat?

In addition to performing the treatments described above, the prosthodontist is also adept at treating problems with the jaw (TMJ), alleviating severe snoring, managing sleep apnea, and reconstructing the teeth following oral cancer treatments.  Generally, the prosthodontist works in combination with other dental health professionals to ensure the best possible restorative results are achieved.

If you have questions or concerns about prosthodontics, please contact your prosthodontist.

Crowns (Caps)

A crown (or cap) is a covering that encases the entire tooth surface, restoring it to its original shape and size.  A crown protects and strengthens tooth structure that cannot be restored with fillings or other types of restorations.

Although there are several types of crowns, porcelain (tooth colored crown) are the most popular.  They are highly durable and will last many years, but like most dental restorations, they may eventually need to be replaced.  Porcelain crowns are made to match the shape, size, and color of your teeth, giving you a long-lasting, beautiful smile.

Reasons for crowns:

• Broken or fractured teeth.
• Cosmetic enhancement.
• Decayed teeth.
• Fractured fillings.
• Large fillings.
• Tooth has a root canal.

What does getting a crown involve?

A crown procedure usually requires two appointments.  Your first appointment will include taking several highly accurate molds (or impressions) that will be used to create your custom crown.  A mold will also be used to create a temporary crown which will stay on your tooth for approximately two weeks until your new crown is fabricated by a dental laboratory.

While the tooth is numb, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay and shaping the surface to properly fit the crown.  Once these details are accomplished, your temporary crown will be placed with temporary cement and your bite will be checked to ensure you are biting properly.

At your second appointment, your temporary crown will be removed, the tooth will be cleaned, and your new crown will be carefully placed to ensure the spacing and bite are accurate.

You will be given care instructions and encouraged to have regular dental visits to check your new crown.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are a great way to replace missing teeth and also provide a fixed solution to having removable partial or complete dentures. Implants provide excellent support and stability for these dental appliances.

Dental implants are artificial roots and teeth (usually titanium) that are surgically placed into the upper or lower jaw bone by a dentist or Periodontist – a specialist of the gums and supporting bone. The teeth attached to implants are very natural looking and often enhance or restore a patient’s smile!

Dental implants are strong and durable and will last many years. On occasion, they will have to be re-tightened or replaced due to normal wear.

Reasons for dental implants:

• Replace one or more missing teeth without affecting adjacent teeth.
• Resolve joint pain or bite problems caused by teeth shifting into missing tooth space.
• Restore a patient’s confident smile.
• Restore chewing, speech, and digestion.
• Restore or enhance facial tissues.
• Support a bridge or denture, making it more secure and comfortable.

What does getting dental implants involve?

The process of getting implants requires a number of visits over several months.

X-rays and impressions (molds) are taken of the jaw and teeth to determine bone, gum tissue, and spacing available for an implant. While the area is numb, the implant will be surgically placed into the bone and allowed to heal and integrate itself for up to six months. Depending on the type of implant, a second surgery may be required in order to place the “post” that will hold the artificial tooth in place. With other implants the post and anchor are already attached and placed at the same time.

After several weeks of healing the artificial teeth are made and fitted to the post portion of the anchor. Because several fittings may be required, this step may take one to two months to complete. After a healing period, the artificial teeth are securely attached to the implant, providing excellent stability and comfort to the patient.

You will receive care instructions when your treatment is completed. Good oral hygiene and eating habits, alongside regular dental visits, will aid in the life of your new implant.

If you have questions about dental implants or would like to schedule a consultation, please contact our office.

Dentures & Partial Dentures

A denture is a removable dental appliance and a replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissue. They are made to closely resemble your natural teeth and may even enhance your smile.

There are two types of dentures – complete and partial dentures. Complete dentures are used when all of the teeth are missing, while partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. A partial denture not only fills in the spaces created by missing teeth, it prevents other teeth from shifting.

A complete denture can be either “conventional” or “immediate.” A conventional type is made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed (usually takes 4 to 6 weeks). During this time, the patient will go without teeth. Immediate dentures are made in advance and immediately placed after the teeth are removed, thus preventing the patient from having to be without teeth during the healing process. Once the tissues shrink and heal, adjustments will have to be made.

Dentures are very durable appliances and will last many years but may have to be remade, repaired, or readjusted due to normal wear.

Reasons for dentures:

• Complete Denture – Loss of all teeth in an arch.
• Partial Denture – Loss of several teeth in an arch.
• Enhancing smile and facial tissues.
• Improving chewing, speech, and digestion.

What does getting dentures involve?

The process of getting dentures requires several appointments, usually over a period of several weeks. Highly accurate impressions (molds) and measurements are taken and used to create your custom denture. Several “try-in” appointments may be necessary to ensure proper shape, color, and fit. At the final appointment, your dentist will precisely adjust and place the completed denture, ensuring a natural and comfortable fit.

It is normal to experience increased saliva flow, some soreness, and possible speech and chewing difficulty, however this will subside as your muscles and tissues get used to the new dentures.

You will be given care instructions for your new dentures. Proper cleaning of your new dental appliance, good oral hygiene, and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new dentures.

Fixed Bridges

Patients with multiple teeth missing can enjoy health and aesthetic benefits with a fixed dental bridge. At Gies Family Dental, we recommend this non-removable appliance to our patients as a sturdy and long-lasting teeth replacement option.

Why Get a Fixed Bridge?

Missing or severely damaged teeth deprive patients of a healthy smile. Without treatment, aesthetic and health effects of damaged or missing teeth only worsen over time. To bolster the look of a complete set of teeth, Dr. Gies may recommend a fixed bridge.

Beyond addressing the appearance of your smile, a fixed bridge can also improve dental function and wellbeing. Dental bridges prevent healthy teeth from shifting out of position, which can cause bite problems. After receiving a fixed bridge, patients may notice significant improvement in their ability to speak and chew.

For patients with removable dental appliances, such as partial dentures, our San Antonio practice recommends fixed bridges as secure option.

Traditional Fixed Bridges

Dr. Gies works with each patient on an individual basis, recommending a variety of dental bridge options that address their unique needs.

Among the most common options are traditional bridges. These bridges work with existing, healthy teeth and are of materials that promote natural aesthetic and strength. Crowns are placed over neighboring teeth, which are then used as anchors for the artificial teeth.

Your dental bridge can give you years of service, especially when you follow routine check-up visits to keep an eye on oral health and wear and tear on restorations.

Receiving a Fixed Bridge

The abutment teeth used to anchor the bridge are prepared for a proper and secure fit. Impressions, or molds, are taken to fabricate a bridge that accurately imitates natural teeth. To ensure you are not left with an incomplete smile prior to receiving your permanent bridge, you will have a temporary bridge to wear.

Prior cementing it in place, Dr. Gies assesses your custom-designed permanent bridge, making any adjustments for a stable and balanced fit. Dependent individual needs, the bridge may be bonded with temporary cement to allow adjustment to the new appliance. At a future appointment, the fixed bridge is cemented permanently.

After the procedure, you will receive care instructions, including advice on proper brushing and flossing routines.

Ready to Learn More? Contact Gies Family Dental.

Achieving a stronger smile begins with a consultation visit. Contact our San Antonio dental office today to schedule an appointment and learn more about dental bridge restorations.

Porcelain Veneers

Veneers are very thin pieces of durable, tooth shaped porcelain that are custom made (for shape and color) by a professional dental laboratory.  They are bonded onto the front of teeth to create a beautiful and attractive smile.

Veneers can completely reshape your teeth and smile.  They can often be alternatives to crowns and the ideal solution in treating many dental conditions.

As with most dental restorations, veneers are not permanent and may someday need replacement.  They are very durable and will last many years, giving you a beautiful long lasting smile.

Reasons for porcelain veneers:

• Cosmetically, to create a uniform, white, beautiful smile.
• Crooked teeth.
• Misshapen teeth.
• Severely discolored or stained teeth.
• Teeth that are too small or large.
• Unwanted or uneven spaces.
• Worn or chipped teeth.

What does getting porcelain veneers involve?

Getting veneers usually requires two visits to complete the process, with little or no anesthesia required during the procedure.  The teeth are prepared by lightly buffing and shaping the surface to allow for the thickness of the veneer.  A mold or impression of the teeth is taken and a shade (color) will then be chosen by you and the dentist.

On the second visit the teeth will be cleansed with special liquids to achieve a durable bond.  Bonding cement is then placed between the tooth and veneer and a special light beam is used to harden and set the bond.

You will receive care instructions for veneers.  Proper brushing, flossing and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new veneers.