Restorative

Fillings

If the surface of the tooth is damaged, Dr. Cope may recommend a filling. Two main types of filling materials are tooth-colored fillings (“composites”) and silver fillings (“amalgams”). The recommended filling material is based on the size, shape, and condition of the damaged tooth area once the decay (“cavity”) is removed. More extensive tooth damage may require an inlay, onlay or crown. Click for more information on the advantages, disadvantages, and safety of tooth-colored vs amalgam fillings.

Crowns

If you have a tooth that has been weakened by extensive decay, large chips, cracks, or filling, Dr. Cope may recommend a crown, or “cap”. A crown can be created to fit over the natural tooth, or it can attach to an implant. Dr. Cope will recommend the material of the crown based on strength and aesthetic considerations. Our goal is to provide you with a crown that allows you to chew effectively and smile confidently!

Implants

One of the preferred ways to replace a missing tooth is with a dental implant. A dental implant is kind of like a small screw in the jawbone that acts as an anchor to support a crown. At Cope Dentistry, we work with several oral surgeons and periodontists who specialize in placing implants. After the implant placement, it takes around 6 months for the bone and gum tissues to heal and grow around the implant until it is strong enough to hold a custom-made crown. The final implant-supported crown functions so much like a natural tooth that many people forget which tooth is the implant! Implants are also placed to help dentures stay in place. If you have a loose denture or are looking to replace missing teeth with implants, ask us if you are a good candidate for dental implants.

Bridges

If you have a missing tooth, a bridge may be an option to fill the space. A bridge is “fixed”, meaning that it is cemented and stays in the mouth (unlike removable partial dentures that are taken out of the mouth). Drs. Cope create a bridge by fitting the teeth on either side of the missing tooth space with crowns. A false tooth is permanently-attached to the crowns. Together, the two crowns support the floating false tooth and act as one chewing unit. In addition to helping you chew better, bridges are esthetic, and prevent teeth from tilting or moving into the missing space. If you have any questions about bridges or the pros and cons of the various ways to replace teeth, call/email Cope Dentistry. Dr.’s Cope are happy to answer questions and even have a few sample bridges at the office they could show you in person.

Dentures

A denture is a plate with “false teeth” that covers the gums and replaces natural teeth. A denture should be worn during the day and taken out at night. Getting a denture helps with chewing and speaking. Dentures also support the cheeks and lips for a full, natural smile. At the initial denture appointment, Drs. Cope carefully make a mold of your gums and ask what size, shape, and color you’d like your new teeth to be. Then, we work closely with the lab to custom-design and build your dentures. Our goal is for you to be satisfied with the fit and look of the dentures, as well as your chewing and speaking abilities so you can quickly get back to your social lifestyle and eating the foods you love. If you have any specific questions about the denture process, immediate dentures, or implant-supported dentures, let us know.

Partials

A partial is a removable dental appliance to replace missing teeth. If you are missing several teeth but implants or a bridge are not an option, a removable partial denture may be a good solution. This partial denture is made with clasps that clip onto the remaining teeth. The partial can be worn while eating and throughout the day and then should be removed before bed. There are a few different types of partials made from various materials. A cast-metal framework partial is built from a metal base and clasps. Then, pink acrylic and natural-looking teeth are fused to the base. We also offer a metal-free type of partial made from flexible plastic. We will help you choose which partial is best for you.