A tooth infection can cause pain and a bad taste in your mouth. It can also damage surrounding teeth and lead to jaw bone deterioration.

A dentist in Clayton can treat the problem with a root canal. This procedure is usually quick and painless. If you are nervous about the treatment, the dentist in Clayton NC can provide mild sedation, such as anxiolysis or nitrous oxide inhalation.

Root Canals

A root canal (or endodontic therapy) is a treatment that saves a tooth when its pulp tissue becomes infected. This tissue is at the center of a tooth, and consists of blood vessels, nerves and connective tissues. When a tooth is damaged by deep decay, cracks and chips, or a dental procedure, its pulp may become infected.

If left untreated, a damaged pulp can cause a severe infection that forms an abscess. A root canal can eliminate the infection, relieve pain and prevent further damage to the tooth.

Modern techniques and technology make root canals a relatively simple, painless procedure. After the infection is removed, your dentist in Clayton NC will seal and crown the tooth to protect it. In many cases, a root canalled tooth can last a lifetime with proper care.

Fillings

Dental fillings are used to repair small cavities (caries). They contain a tooth-colored resin that bonds with the remaining teeth, strengthening them and improving their appearance. They are an ideal option for patients seeking a natural-looking and long-lasting solution.

Tooth bonding is a conservative approach to reshape or recolor your smile. We use a tooth-colored resin to “bond” with your tooth, reshaping and coloring it to appear like a natural tooth.

Indirect restorations require two or more visits and include crowns, onlays, veneers, and inlays fabricated with gold, base metal alloys, ceramics or composites. Our dentist in Clayton NC have extensive training in the placement and adjustment of these restorations. They also ensure they are bonded correctly and that the result is natural-looking. They can also replace existing amalgam or silver fillings.

Crowns

A tooth that has been damaged by decay or broken can be protected with a crown. This “cap” is bonded to the tooth and returns it to its original size, shape, color and strength.

A traditional crown requires two appointments. The first visit focuses on preparing the tooth by shaping it along the chewing surface and sides. This includes applying a local anesthetic to ensure comfort. An impression of the tooth is then taken and sent to a lab for fabrication. In the meantime, you will wear a temporary crown.

Metal crowns are made of gold, platinum or base metal alloys. These are the longest lasting, but their metallic appearance can be unsightly and they do not look as natural. Resin or all porcelain/all ceramic crowns are less expensive but are more fragile and do not last as long.

Dental Bridges

A dental bridge fills the gap caused by one or more missing teeth. This is important because it can help with eating and speaking as well as prevent other teeth from shifting into the empty space.

Dental bridges are a fixed prosthetic that is secured to adjacent healthy teeth with dental cement. They can last for over ten years with proper oral hygiene (brushing twice daily, flossing, and routine professional cleanings). Special brushes or floss threaders are available to keep the pontic areas clean.

During your first appointment, Our Dr. team will prepare two healthy teeth on either side of the missing tooth or teeth. They will file down these teeth and make impressions to construct your bridge. This process may be painful, but anesthesia or sedation will eliminate this discomfort.

Dentures

Dentures are a cost-effective and efficient option for replacing missing teeth. They can improve chewing and speaking abilities, as well as enhance your smile. They also help prevent existing teeth from shifting positions.

A traditional full denture consists of a thin gum-colored acrylic base that rests on the tissues (gums). Porcelain or acrylic replacement teeth built into the base provide the appearance of natural teeth.

Partial dentures are useful when many or all of the remaining natural teeth are missing from either the upper or lower arch. A partial denture consists of a plate with removable prosthetic teeth that fill in the spaces and help prevent existing natural teeth from shifting. It can also be anchored by dental implants for a more secure fit.