Tooth-colored Fillings, Dentures, and More

General Dentistry Bethesda

Dr. Victor R. Siegel has been practicing dentistry for over 30 years and is skilled in all varieties of general and cosmetic dentistry techniques. We strive to offer the most advanced procedures, technology, and materials. We also want to maintain the strong function and oral health of your teeth. With the help of treatments such as tooth-colored fillings, dentures, and dental implants, our Rockville cosmetic dentist Victor R. Siegel can correct not only the aesthetics of the smile, but also the function of the teeth and gums. To this end, Dr. Siegel and his staff attend many continuing education seminars in order to stay current with the latest dental techniques and trends.

Contact our Rockville cosmetic dentistry practice to learn more about tooth-colored fillings, dentures, or any of other general dentistry procedures we offer, or to schedule your consultation with Victor R. Siegel, DDS.

Tooth-Colored Fillings

More and more of our Rockville-area patients are requesting tooth-colored fillings, rather than the amalgam fillings of the past. Amalgam fillings were made of silver and other metals and mixed with mercury just before placing it in the cavity. Because mercury expands and contracts with changes in temperature, the mercury could, over time, stress or crack the tooth structure. As the filling and the tooth pull away from each other, bacteria may enter the space between them, causing further decay. Additionally, the amalgam fillings darken noticeably as they age, and discolor the teeth where they are placed.

We believe that you should not be reminded of your fillings each time you look in the mirror. Tooth-colored fillings are an exciting development in dentistry because they are not only as strong and durable as amalgam fillings of the past, but they are nearly undetectable in the tooth. At our Rockville office, our tooth-colored fillings are made of composite resin – the very same material used in cosmetic bonding. Tooth-colored fillings can be shaded to exactly match surrounding teeth. They do not expand or contract with changes in temperature, and they are sealed into the tooth structure to prevent bacteria from leaking into the area.

Dentures

When teeth are missing due to tooth decay, periodontal disease, or injury, partial or full dentures can replace missing teeth. Although there are several options for replacing missing teeth, dentures remain one of the most effective methods of restoring the facial structure and the ability to bite. There are several different types of dentures; during your initial appointment at our Rockville office, Dr. Siegel will determine which type of dentures would be best for your particular situation.

Complete dentures can be used to cover the upper jaw, lower jaw, or both.
Partial dentures involve a metal framework with simulated teeth and gums, and are easily removed for cleaning.
Fixed partial dentures, also called bridges, are fixed in place and function just like natural teeth.
Bridges tend to be more expensive than removable partial dentures, and they require that the surrounding teeth be healthy enough to support them using porcelain crowns.

Fixed dentures can offer the sensation of having your natural teeth in place. They are, however, harder to keep clean and can be more difficult to modify, if necessary. Removable dentures are easier to clean, but may feel less stable and require more of an adjustment period. They are generally a faster solution, but may cause more stress on the surrounding teeth than fixed dentures would. Learn more about the different kinds of dentures by contacting Dr. Siegel today.

Cast Gold Fillings

Cast gold fillings have excellent durability and do not abrade the surrounding teeth. However, they can conduct heat and cold, which may cause irritation. Cast gold fillings, inlays, and onlays are made with 14 to 18kt gold. For years, gold was the dominant choice of filling material due to its durability. It is not unusual for a cast gold filling to last for decades. Some of our Rockville-area patients still choose cast gold fillings over tooth-colored fillings for their well-tested durability over time.

Comprehensive Oral Examinations

A comprehensive oral examination is an essential component of your visit to Dr. Siegel. It involves a complete examination and recording of the health of your teeth and oral tissue. Your medical and dental history will be evaluated, any medications you are taking will be noted, and a gum tissue and bite exam will also be conducted during your appointment. We may also take X-rays of your tooth structure and jaw to diagnose any potential problems that might not be recognizable on the surface.

VELscope® Oral Cancer Screenings

During your comprehensive oral exam, an oral cancer screening will be conducted with the VELscope® system. No rinses are necessary as this simple screening uses a blue light to highlight the differences between normal and abnormal oral tissues. Seventy percent of the time, oral cancer is not visible to dental professionals until the cancer has reached an advanced stage. The VELscope® technology enables Dr. Siegel to locate any abnormal tissue in the mouth very early.

Teeth Cleanings

Teeth cleanings are an essential part of your dental visits. Dr. Siegel or one of our dental hygienists will clean your teeth in order to remove the plaque and tartar that builds up over time. Regular cleanings remove deposits and prevent the onset of periodontal disease, which can endanger the health of your smile and cause tooth loss. Most adults and children come in for a teeth cleaning every six to 12 months.

Soft Tissue Management

Soft tissue management is the care of the gums and soft tissues of the mouth. Periodontal disease affects three out of four adults. A soft tissue management plan helps to eliminate the bacteria that collects along the gumline. The ultimate goal of soft tissue management is to prevent pain and bleeding and produce healthy gums using at-home treatments and regular check-ups at our Rockville office. By preventing periodontal disease and subsequent tooth loss, dentures or other tooth-replacement appliances may not be needed later in life.

Sealants

Sealants are made of plastic and are used to coat the teeth in order to protect them from decay. The first sealants became available to dentists in the 1970s. Many children have successfully avoided serious cavities since then by having sealants applied to molars and chewing surfaces. Sealants can be placed in the grooves of teeth to prevent cavities and also on smooth tooth surfaces to discourage plaque from forming and help keep teeth clean.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots made of titanium. When these implants are surgically placed into the jaw, they can restore your bite with the strength of natural teeth. After your dental implants are placed and integrated into your jawbone, we will create a beautiful restoration for you at our Rockville office. Dentures, bridges, or porcelain crowns may be attached to dental implants, and will be completely supported by the jawbone to repair not only the function, but the aesthetic qualities of your smile.

Dental implants could be a perfect solution for you if you are missing teeth, but still have healthy gums. Dental implants also put less stress on gum tissue since they are self-supported through the jaw. The closest approximation to natural teeth, dental implants improve the strength of the bite, restore the beauty of the smile, and with the proper dental maintenance, can last for a lifetime.

Root Canal Treatment

Root canal treatment is a much-feared dental procedure, but it need not be. Dr. Siegel has the experience to perform root canal treatment with minimal discomfort. In fact, many of our Rockville-area patients have said that it is similar to replacing amalgam fillings with tooth-colored fillings. During the root canal procedure, the inside of the tooth, or pulp, is treated. When the pulp of the tooth is diseased, the dentist removes the pulp, cleans the canal, and seals it. A crown is then placed on the tooth in order to make it stronger.

Sedation Dentistry

Imagine being able to receive the dental care you require without feeling nervous or apprehensive. Anxiety-free sedation dentistry makes this possible. Sedation dentistry could be an option if you experience excessive fear in relation to your dental care.

Sedation protocols have been safely in use for over 30 years. After a thorough review of your medical and dental history, Dr. Siegel will schedule your appointment. On the day of the appointment, you will take a pill and have a companion drive you to our office. You will be relaxed and comfortable throughout your appointment. Most patients feel no discomfort during or after their dental treatment, and have little or no memory of their visit.

Contact Our Dentistry Office Today

If you are interested in general dentistry, sedation dentistry, or any of our other procedures, contact our cosmetic dentistry office in Rockville. We offer tooth-colored fillings, dentures, comprehensive exams, preventative dentistry, and more to improve the health and function of your teeth. During your visit, Dr. Victor Siegel will provide you with the personalized care and attention you deserve. Give us a call, and we will be happy to address any questions or concerns you may have.

Results from Our Happy Patients