FIXED PROSTHODONTICS
If you've experienced broken down, fractured, and discolored teeth, then fixed prosthodontic techniques could preserve your existing teeth and restore what is broken or missing. Dr. Ferro provides the design and service of replacing missing teeth. The patient is not purchasing a 'commodity' but a commitment to maintain the supporting teeth and gum tissues around the crowns and bridges. Dr. Ferro was board certified in dental hygiene while he was a dental student. He personally maintains the supporting teeth for fixed prosthodontics.
There are several dental materials used in the design of fixed porcelain laminate veneers, crowns, and bridges. For over 30 years, Dr. Ferro has used dental metal alloy that is refined from a Connecticut company. The ceramic has a fine grained, opalescent appearance similar to tooth enamel. The hand-made crowns and bridges are made with hand-applied porcelain or a computer-controlled ceramic pressing oven by Dr. Ferro in his laboratory.
Crowns and Veneers
Crowns and veneers are used to cover, or "cap," a large area of a damaged tooth to restore it to normal function and appearance. They may be made of all-precious metal, porcelain-fused-to-metal, or all-ceramic (porcelain). Dr. Ferro's research interests have included the bonding of composite-to-metal as well as aesthetic all-ceramic materials.
After several years, existing crowns may require replacement because of tooth decay at the root surface that isn't covered by the crown. The long-term maintenance for a successful crown requires periodic professional cleaning and use of anti-cavity applications of topical fluoride. Many patients who grind their teeth may wear down the crown material. Wearing of a plastic sleeve or guard during sleeping hours can protect the teeth and increase the life-time of the crowns.
Composite Resin Bonding
Indirect Resin Bonding
Ceramic Veneers
Dental Bridges
Fixed bridges, an alternative for dental implants, are a technique for replacing a missing tooth, or teeth. When dental implants are not an option, a bridge involves applying crowns to your teeth on either side of the gap, and then adding a false tooth, or teeth joined to the crowns. Bridges cannot be removed by the patient, and require specialized aids (brushes, floss) to keep them clean. Bridges are typically used when extensive tooth decay in addition to missing teeth. They may also be used to replace severely fractured teeth due to excessive and forceful teeth grinding.
