Restorative and Cosmetic Dentistry
Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry
Dr. Sorkin’s expertise and high quality restorations can give you a smile you will be proud to show off whether its for one or two teeth or a whole smile makeover.
Our cosmetic dental procedures include:
Crowns and Bridges – Choice includes full porcelain fused to metal, ceramic or gold crown used for a dental restoration to replace broken or cracked tooth
- Fillings and Bonding
- Implants
Veneers
Dentures
Teeth Whitening
Restorative Services
Crowns and Bridges
Crowns and bridges are used to restore and enhance teeth that are damaged, or to take the place of missing teeth. A crown, also referred to as a cap, is used to entirely cover a damaged tooth. A crown not only strengthens a tooth, but it can dramatically improve a tooth’s appearance, shape and alignment. Crowns may be used to:
Replace a large filling when there is little tooth structure remaining.
Protect a weak tooth from fracturing.
Restore a fractured tooth.
Attach a bridge.
Cover a dental implant.
Cover a discolored or poorly shaped tooth.
Cover a tooth that has had root canal treatment.
A bridge is an ideal method to fill the space created by missing teeth. A bridge is one or more artificial teeth that are cemented into place using the teeth on either side for support, hence the name. This is an option for filling the space created by a missing tooth. A bridge replaces the missing tooth, both functionally and cosmetically. Bridgework is as much an art as it is an exact science. The materials used may be gold alloys, porcelain bonded to metal alloy, or all ceramic material made to match your natural tooth color. The choice of material depends on requirements for strength, wear, and/or esthetics.
It is important that a missing tooth be replaced as soon as possible for several reasons. If not treated the teeth surrounding the gap begin to shift inward. Since teeth use their neighbors for support, if one is missing they begin to “fall” and shift into the open spaces. This may worsens the bite due to changes in pressure and can eventually result in problems with the jaw such as TMJ. Bridges and crowns are made by first taking an impression of your mouth. The impression is sent to a dental lab where your crown or bridge will be custom made to fit your mouth and match your natural tooth color. A temporary crown or bridge will be placed into your mouth until your permanent crown or bridge is made. When the permanent crown or bridge is ready, it will be cemented into place.
Bridges and crowns are very durable and can last a lifetime with extra care and by practicing good oral hygiene.
Fillings and Bonding
A filling is a way to restore a tooth damaged by decay back to its normal function and shape. If you have a tooth that requires a filling, the dentist will first remove the decayed tooth material, clean the affected area, and then fill the cleaned out cavity with a filling material. A filling also helps prevent further decay by closing off any cracks or spaces where bacteria can enter. There is a variety of filling materials available including gold, plastic and porcelain. The dentist will work with you to determine which material is best for you, depending on the extent of repair, where in your mouth the filling is needed, and cost. Each of the filling materials is briefly explained below:
Gold fillings are custom made in a laboratory and then cemented into place. While gold fillings are often the most expensive choice, many consider it the best filling material. Gold inlays are well-tolerated by gum tissues and may last more than 20 years.
Composite (plastic) resins are custom made to the exact color of your natural teeth, creating a more natural appearance. While white fillings may be less noticeable than other materials, they usually only last between 3 and 10 years. They may not be ideal for large fillings as they may chip or wear over time. They can also become stained from coffee, tea or tobacco.
Porcelain fillings are called inlays or onlays and are custom created in a lab and then bonded to the tooth. They can be matched to the color of the tooth, resist staining, and are about the same cost as gold fillings. A porcelain restoration generally covers most of the tooth, making the filling nearly undetectable.
If decay or a fracture has damaged a large portion of the tooth, a crown, or cap, may be recommended. Decay that has reached the nerve may be treated through root canal therapy or through a procedure called pulp capping.
Bonding involves adhering composite resin material that is matched to the color of the tooth, to the front of the tooth. This is done to repair damage done to the tooth by decay, to alter the alignment of the tooth, close gaps between the teeth, or for cosmetic purposes. First the surface of the tooth is roughened in order to accept the bonding and hold it. A gel is applied to micro etch the tooth surface, and a primer/bond agent is applied so the material adheres to the surface. Then the material itself is placed on the tooth and hardened with intense light. The composite resin material is shaped and polished to get a lustrous finish as a last step.
Dentures
If you have missing teeth, a removable partial denture is one way to replace them.
Partial dentures have several benefits. For one thing, they can make it easier for you to chew food. They can also help you speak better if your speech has changed due to missing teeth. Removable partial dentures can support cheeks and lips so the face does not sag and make you look older.
Denture Reline
Just like your natural teeth, dentures need to be cared for constantly. With excellent habits at home and regular dental visits your dentures will fit perfectly. Sometimes dentures need to be periodically adjusted for a proper fit to avoid causing discomfort or difficulty chewing. Every few years, your dentist will usually recommend that your dentures be relined, or resurfaced, to conform to the changing contours of your mouth.
Why Is Denture Relining Necessary?
The bones and tissues in your mouth change over time. In fact, once you have a tooth extraction, the bone that once held the tooth in place begins to shrink. Since dentures require a tight fit against your gum tissue, it’s important to adjust the denture base to keep up with this shift.
Poorly fitting dentures can also contribute to the problem by wearing down the bone and soft tissues in your mouth more quickly. Relining your dentures helps minimize this erosion, as well as compensate for natural oral changes. Dentures aren’t indestructible! They will need to be consistently maintained and repaired to keep them as effective (and attractive) as the day you got them.
Your dentist begins by removing a layer of the existing denture surface. A putty-like material is filled in and inserted into your mouth to make an exact impression of the denture area. Once this impression has hardened, it is used to create a new surface or base for the existing denture teeth. This step is sometimes completed in the dental office, but more often is done in a lab to produce a longer lasting surface.
There are two types of denture relines:
Hard Denture Reline — The impression material is replaced with a hard pink acrylic that is perfectly formed to the contours of your mouth. This type of relining is recommended every two years and provides the most contact with your gum tissue for maximum hold.
Soft Denture Reline — For patients whose gums are too tender for hard relining, dentists may opt to reline the denture surface with a softer, more flexible material. Although easier on the gums, this type of relining may have to be replaced more often to maintain a proper fit.
Denture Loving Care
It’s a fact, over time dentures become worn and don’t fit as well, so it’s important to reline them regularly. Denture adhesives, while a great way to help keep well-fitting dentures in place, should not be used in place of continual denture relining. See your dentist on a regular basis and make sure to communicate any changes in the way your dentures fit or feel. With proper denture care, your dentures can keep you smiling for years to come.
Cosmetic Services
Dental Implants
A dental implant is an ideal tooth restoration for people who are missing one or more teeth as a result of injury, periodontal disease, or any other reason. A dental implant is a metal post that a Periodontist or an oral surgeon surgically position into the jaw. Once in place and bone surrounding the implant has had time to heal, a replacement tooth is attached to the post. While implants are typically more expensive than other methods of tooth replacement, they provide superior benefits. Implants are stronger than natural teeth and generally last 10-20 years. They are also a more favorable approach than bridgework since they do not depend on neighboring teeth for support.
To receive implants, you need to have healthy gums and adequate bone to support the implant. With inadequate bone amount, bone-graft is usually necessary. You must also be committed to excellent oral hygiene and regular dental visits as these are critical to the long-term success of dental implants.
Veneers
If you want to improve your smile, dental veneers are a simple option. Veneers are thin coverings that are placed over the front (visible) part of the tooth. They look like natural teeth. Veneers can be used to correct a wide range of dental issues, such as:
teeth that are stained and can’t be whitened by bleaching
chipped or worn teeth
crooked or misshapen teeth
uneven spaces or a large gap between the upper front teeth
Veneers are made of either porcelain or composite resin material. Your dentist will help you choose the material that is best for you. Each type of veneer has its own benefits.
Porcelain Veneers
A porcelain veneer is a thin shell that is custom-made to fit on the tooth.
Benefits of porcelain veneers:
they are strong and long-lasting
they have a natural-looking surface
less tooth enamel needs to be removed than with a crown or cap
they don’t stain easily
Steps to place porcelain veneers:
1. To prepare the teeth, the dentist usually removes a small amount of enamel from the front and sides of the teeth. This makes room for the veneers so that your teeth look natural.
2. The dentist makes an impression, or mold, of the prepared teeth. The dentist also decides on the veneer shade that will be best for your smile.
3. The impression is sent to a dental lab that custom-makes the porcelain veneers to fit your teeth. This may take several days. The dentist may give you temporary veneers to wear in the meantime.
4. At the next visit, the dentist places the veneers on the teeth to check the fit and shape. After any adjustments, the teeth are cleaned and the veneers are bonded to the tooth.
5. Further changes may be made at a later appointment.
Composite resin veneers
1. After the teeth are prepared or reshaped, the dentist carefully bonds and sculpts the composite material using a color that is best for you.
2. A special light is used to harden the composite and bond it to your teeth.
3. The veneers are smoothed and polished to look like natural teeth.
Before you get veneers
Your teeth and gums must be healthy before you get veneers. Your dentist can treat any disease or decay before your veneers are placed.
Veneers are not always a good choice for patients who clench or grind their teeth, because the thin veneers may chip or break. If you clench or grind your teeth, your dentist may suggest you wear a plastic dental night guard while sleeping.
Although your dentist removes as little tooth enamel as possible for veneers, the process cannot be undone once the enamel is removed.
It is possible for veneers to come loose over time. In that case, new ones might be needed.
As with all your dental care, discuss all your expectations and treatment options with your dentist.
Regular dental visits are a must for keeping your teeth and gums healthy.
After you get veneers
Veneers can chip or break under pressure.
Avoid biting your fingernails and chewing on hard objects, such as pencils or ice.
It may take you a few days to get used to the feel of your veneers. But do let your dentist know if your bite does not feel right after the veneer has been placed. He or she will correct it before you leave the office.
Keep your teeth and gums clean by brushing and flossing each day. You can still get cavities under or around veneers. Look for dental care products that show the American Dental Association’s Seal of Acceptance. This says that a product has met ADA standards for safety and effectiveness.
Teeth Whitening
OPALESCENCE TEETH WHITENING – professional strength take home system using custom trays with a whitening gel.
Opalescence take-home whitening gel offers professional results in a customized whitening treatment you can do in the comfort of your own home. Available in a range of formulations and flavors, Opalescence take-home whitening gel is delivered via custom-made trays, further tailoring the treatment to your smile. Opalescence take-home whitening gel is available only through a licensed dental professional.
Professional results—in the comfort of your own home
Opalescence take-home whitening gel is perfect for people who want a lot of options. With four different concentrations and three flavors, you can wear Opalescence for as little as 30 minutes per day—or even overnight! Dispensed only by a licensed dental professional, Opalescence take-home whitening gel allows you to get professional whitening results at your convenience in a safe, effective, and customized way!
Opalescence tooth whitening gel contains PF (potassium nitrate and fluoride). Potassium nitrate has been shown to help reduce sensitivity. Fluoride has been shown to help reduce cavities and strengthen enamel. Together, they help to improve the overall health of the teeth.1-5
Formulated to prevent dehydration and shade relapse
Four concentrations for treatment flexibility
Three flavors: Mint, Melon, and Regular
Day or night wear
Have Questions? Get in Touch!
- 1939 McCulloch Blvd, Lake Havasu City, AZ 86403
- 928.855.5041
- havasuvalleydentallhc@gmail.com
Most Insurances Accepted
Delta Dental – Ameritas – United Concordia – MetLife
