Care for Damaged & Missing Teeth
Restorative Dentistry in Durham
A damaged or lost tooth can cause discomfort, embarrassment about your appearance, and further health complications. At Messenger Family Dentistry, Dr. Messenger is here to help with expert restorative dentistry in Durham. We know life can get in the way of staying on top of your dental care. Whether you have a small cavity or severe decay, we will always provide compassionate, judgment-free care. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Messenger.
Repairing Decayed Teeth
Composite Dental Fillings
At Messenger Family Dentistry, we use composite (tooth-colored) fillings to repair cavities. These fillings are made of a blend of durable materials, including dental resin. They match the color of your existing teeth perfectly and allow for a seamless restoration. When used to fill a decayed tooth, composite resin provides a secure hold and offers long-lasting restoration.
Signs of a Cavity
Recognizing When You Need a Filling
Common signs of a cavity include a toothache, sensitivity to hot and cold temperatures, and visible pitting or discoloration on the surface of your tooth. If you notice one or more of these symptoms, you may have a cavity and will require proper treatment, such as a composite dental filling, to restore the strength and health of your tooth.
Restoring Damaged Teeth
Lab-Made Dental Crowns
At our office, we use precise, custom-crafted, lab-made dental crowns to restore damaged teeth. Crowns are often recommended for teeth with severe decay, or for teeth that have been cracked or broken. They are designed to cover up all of your remaining enamel, preserving your tooth and protecting it from further damage. Our crowns look and feel just like your natural tooth, so your smile will still look great and function perfectly after treatment.
The Benefits of
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are made of durable porcelain. This ensures that your remaining enamel is protected from decay and damage, keeping your smile healthy and strong. Dental crowns can last up to 15 years or longer with proper care. You can treat your crown just like a natural tooth, which makes this treatment very convenient. Simply continue to brush twice a day, floss at least once per day, and come see Dr. Messenger for regular cleanings and checkups. It is important to continue to come for regular visits to ensure your remaining enamel, gums, and surrounding teeth stay healthy.
Restore Missing Teeth
Full & Partial Dentures
We offer both full and partial dentures at Messenger Family Dentistry. Partial dentures are made of a plastic or metal framework. They attach to your healthy teeth, and can be used to restore one or more missing teeth with false teeth. Full-arch dentures, on the other hand, are usually only recommended if you’re missing most or all of your natural teeth. This is because they must be fitted directly to your gums, so any remaining natural teeth must be extracted before your dentures can be made.