Although teeth whitening, porcelain veneers, and other cosmetic dentistry treatments are excellent solutions for improving an individual’s smile, many people have badly damaged or decayed teeth that require restorative treatment in addition to cosmetic enhancement. Other individuals have gaps in their smile left by missing teeth that can be replaced by durable, natural-looking restorations. Dr. Michael Cooper is proud to offer a comprehensive range of restorative dentistry procedures at his practice in Russellville, Arkansas, serving Little Rock and beyond, including dental crowns, dental bridges, and dental implants.
Dental crowns are tooth-shaped coverings that are placed over badly damaged teeth to restore function and reduce discomfort. They strengthen weakened teeth and enable individuals to chew and smile with confidence once again.
There are three different types of dental crowns: porcelain, ceramic, and metal. Metal crowns are highly durable and are often placed over damaged back teeth where they provide extra support for chewing but are relatively inconspicuous.
Tooth-colored ceramic crowns are often placed on front teeth because they are translucent and can be customized to match the color and size of the patient’s surrounding teeth. Porcelain crowns are a third option for treatment. These crowns fall in between metal and ceramic crowns in terms of their durability and cosmetic qualities. Dr. Cooper will choose the type of dental crowns that best meets the patient’s individual needs.
Dental crowns can be placed in just two office procedures. In the first procedure, the teeth are prepared for treatment and impressions are made for use in creating the dental crowns. Temporary crowns will be worn for about two weeks while the permanent crowns are being crafted. In the second procedure, the temporary crowns are removed and the permanent crowns are bonded to the teeth. We invite you to schedule a dental crowns consultation with Dr. Cooper to learn more about this highly effective restorative treatment.
For individuals who have lost teeth due to injury or disease, dental bridges can restore function to the mouth and improve the appearance of their smiles. Dental bridges replace the gaps in the mouth that remain when teeth are lost. Each dental bridge consists of two crowns that are placed on either side of the missing tooth. The two crowns are connected to a replacement tooth that is placed into the gap. The dental crowns can be connected to the patient’s natural teeth or to dental implants.
To begin the procedure, impressions will be taken of the patient’s mouth in order to create the dental crowns. The artificial teeth are then bonded to the dental crowns to create the dental bridge. During a second office visit, the dental bridges will be firmly secured in place. To learn more about dental bridges and how they can provide a stable and secure solution to missing teeth, please contact our practice to schedule a consultation.
Dental implants can be utilized in conjunction with dental crowns or dental bridges to provide a long-term, secure solution to missing teeth. Dental implants look, feel, and perform like real teeth. They also prevent bone loss and gum recession from occurring.
For more information about dental implants, dental bridges, or dental crowns, contact our practice in Russellville, Arkansas, serving Little Rock, Fayetteville, and all surrounding communities. These restorative dentistry treatments can greatly improve your oral health, your ability to chew, and the attractiveness of your smile.
For more information about cosmetic dentistry in the Little Rock and Russellville areas of Arkansas, please contact the practice of Dr. Michael Cooper using the form below.
Michael Cooper DDS
110 S. Inglewood
Russellville, AR 72801
Ph. 479-968-4477
Fx. 479-968-4498