Crowns and Dentures

Whether you’re dealing with missing or damaged teeth, it can be difficult to feel confident about your smile. At the office of Dr. Stephen J. Menke, we offer a full collection of services to help. We offer dental crowns and complete or partial dentures.

Dental Crowns in Joplin, MO

Dental crowns are oftentimes referred to as caps because they literally cap over an existing tooth. However, crowns may also be placed atop a dental implant to complete the treatment. Dental crowns can be made of different materials, such as porcelain or composite resin. In either case, the finished result is a fully functional, fully restored tooth.

Reasons You May Need a Dental Crown

Crowns are commonly recommended when the exterior of a tooth is damaged to a point that it would be at risk of further deterioration. For example, if a tooth has been fractured, a crown may be placed to restore the integrity and appearance of the tooth. Crowns are also often placed after a tooth has undergone a root canal.

Obtaining a Dental Crown – The Process

Obtaining a crown may look different depending on the situation, but the general process can go something as follows:

1. The underlying tooth is prepared with a thorough cleaning
2. Decayed or diseased material is removed
3. Impressions are made of the tooth
4. The crown is created in the dental lab
5. The crown is placed on the underlying tooth with a dental bonding adhesive

Dentures in Joplin, MO

For patients that have lost all or most of their teeth, a full or partial denture may be the most economical option for smile restoration. Dentures have evolved tremendously over the last few decades. Materials can vary, but all are designed to be as comfortable and well-fitting as possible. Further, many modern dentures look impressively like natural teeth and do a good job of restoring chewing power for patients.

Types of Dentures

The primary two types of dentures are full and partial dentures. Full denture arches are for patients who have lost all teeth on either the top or lower jaw. A partial denture is designed for patients that may have a few remaining teeth. The partial denture is fitted to the mouth and may anchor to the teeth.

Obtaining Dentures – What to Expect

The general process of obtaining dentures can include:

1. Taking impressions of your mouth (and existing teeth in the case of a partial denture)
2. Discussing options regarding denture materials, colors, etcetera
3. You are fitted with a wax mold that has been made of your bite impressions
4. The dentures are made in the dental lab
5. You are fitted with your final dentures
6. Any necessary adjustments are made

Work with an Experienced Joplin Dentist for Crowns and Dentures

For the right patients, dental crowns or dentures can be life-changing. If you believe you would benefit from dental crowns or are interested in dentures, be sure to reach out to the office of Dr. Stephen J. Menke to schedule an appointment.