General Dentistry, Restorative Dentistry & Cosmetic Dentistry

Dental Care for All Ages and the Entire Family

Morgan Family Dentistry Services

From routine cleanings and fillings to bruxism devices, Michael L. Morgan, D.D.S. is equipped to handle all of your dental needs. To help you understand your options, we've included descriptions of some of our leading services on this page.

Dental Bonding Dental Cosmetic Contouring Dental Crowns and Bridges Dental Cosmetic Fillings Excessive or Uneven Gums Dental Veneers Teeth Whitening Dental Implant Restorations

Dental Sealants Dental Root Canal Therapy Dental Extractions Dental Scaling and Root Planing Dentures Cosmetic Dentistry Geriatric Dentistry Pediatric Dentistry

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Implant Placement and Restoration

Before development of dental implants, dentures were the only alternative to replacing a missing tooth or teeth. Implants are synthetic structures that are placed in the area of the tooth normally occupied by the root. Implants are anchored to the jawbone or metal framework on the bone and act as a foundation for an artificial tooth or permanent bridge. In some cases, implants can be used to attach dentures. Implants are so well-designed, they mimic the look and feel of natural teeth. Implants are usually made of a synthetic yet bio compatible material like metal or ceramic.

Not everyone is a candidate for a dental implant. For a successful implant to take hold, a candidate must have proper bone density and have a strong immune system. Diabetics and people with chronic bruxism (teeth clenching) are generally not favorable candidates. In all cases, dental implants require strict oral hygiene. In general, good candidates who have dental implants can expect high success rates with the procedure.

Types of implants:

• Full upper replacements: The upper set of teeth is replaced with implants.
  
• Anterior replacement: Implants are used to replace the front teeth (also called incisors and cupids).
  
• Full lower replacement: The lower set of teeth is replaced with implants. Full lower replacement usually only uses six implants (near the front), which are used to anchor a denture. This obviates the need for denture adhesive.
  
• Posterior replacement: Implants are used to replace the bicuspids and molars (the back teeth).
• Single tooth replacement

Steps for these procedures include:

• Missing tooth roots are replaced with implants, which are covered under the gum line.
  
• A healing period of six months allows implants to integrate.
  
• The implants are uncovered and extensions attached.
  
• Replacement teeth are affixed to the implants and extensions.

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Crowns

Crowns are synthetic caps, usually made of a material like porcelain, placed on the top of a tooth. They are typically used to restore a tooth’s function and appearance following a restorative procedure such as a root canal. When decay in a tooth has become so advanced that large portions of the tooth must be removed, crowns are often used to restore the tooth. Crowns are also used to attach bridges, cover implants,prevent further tooth fracturing, or should an existing filling be in jeopardy of becoming loose or dislocated. Crowns also serve a cosmetic use, and are applied when a discolored or stained tooth needs to be restored to its natural appearance.

Procedure:

A tooth must usually be reduced in size to accommodate a crown. A cast is made of the existing tooth and an impression is made. The impression is sent to a special lab, which manufactures a custom-designed crown. In some cases, a temporary crown is applied until the permanent crown is ready. Permanent crowns are cemented in place.

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Dentures and Partial Dentures

A denture is a removable dental appliance replacement for missing teeth and surrounding tissue. They are made to closely resemble your natural teeth and even enhance your smile. Dr. Morgan’s method for denture fabrication involves considerable practical experience as well as the latest materials and techniques.

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 may be either “conventional” or “immediate.” A conventional type is made after the teeth have been removed and the gum tissue has healed, usually taking 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.