Implants

Implants are dentistry’s most sophisticated and cutting-edge answer to an old problem – tooth loss caused by injury, tooth decay, and gum disease. Instead of attaching a replacement tooth to other teeth, a dental implant surgically fixes replacement teeth into the gums by recreating the tooth root. This artificial root is a tiny titanium post that is inserted into the missing tooth’s bone socket. The jawbone grows around the post, fastening it firmly in place as though it were a natural root. Dr. Hale or Dr. Downey attaches a replacement tooth to the post when they determine that it has established itself securely in the mouth, usually three to six months after the implantation surgery.

Both Dr. Hale and Dr. Downey are members of the American Academy of Implant Dentistry and perform full-service implant dentistry, including both root placement surgery and the attachment of replacement teeth. Because of our extensive experience, we are pleased to be able to provide all phases of implant dentistry at our office. Our expertise and access to the latest ceramics technology allow us to make the procedure as comfortable as possible for you and achieve natural-looking, natural-feeling results. Hale & Downey Family Dentistry uses local anesthesia during the procedure, and most patients experience only mild soreness afterwards. Our implants provide a strong foundation for replacement teeth and will last a lifetime with proper care.

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Root Canal Therapy

Thanks to our practice’s advanced dental technology, root canal therapy need not be a painful and uncomfortable procedure. After examining x-rays of your tooth to determine the level of decay or infection, Dr. Hale or Dr. Downey will anesthetize the area surrounding the tooth and clean out the bacteria and debris from inside the damaged tooth with several long, skinny files. If a crown is necessary to protect the treated tooth, our office is often able to prepare it the same day.

Fillings

Fillings replace parts of the tooth which have become decayed with a durable material. Hale & Downey Family Dentistry offers our patients both gold and tooth-colored restorations. Dr. Hale or Dr. Downey will recommend a material to you based on their professional experience and your concerns about aesthetics and durability. The decayed portion of the tooth will be removed and the tooth will be thoroughly cleaned in preparation for the filling. Next, the filling will be trimmed and polished to match the shape and texture of your teeth.

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Crowns

Restore the strength of a decayed or damaged tooth with a durable porcelain crown. Crowns may also be used to hold a dental bridge in place or to conceal discoloration. At times, severely decayed teeth may require root canal therapy before we can place the crown. After an x-ray examination to determine the level of tooth decay, Dr. Hale or Dr. Downey will file down the tooth to accommodate the crown. We will then take an impression of the tooth and surrounding teeth to ensure a custom fit. When your crown arrives, it will be adjusted to sit comfortably in your mouth and bonded in place. Click here to learn about the aesthetic benefits of crowns.

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Bridges

Dental bridges fill in gaps left by missing teeth to recreate the look and function of a full set of teeth. A bridge is composed of an artificial tooth placed in the gap held in place by crowns on either side. An impression of your teeth will be taken to match your crowns and artificial tooth with your natural dental structure. When your bridge arrives, Drs. Hale and Downey will adjust it for optimum comfort and securely affix the bridge in your mouth. Dental bridges facilitate proper chewing, speaking, and tooth alignment by balancing your bite. Click here for more information about how bridges can improve the appearance of your smile.

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