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Family & Restorative Dentistry

 

What is Family dentistry?

Family dentistry includes what most people think of as “just a cleaning” and “regular visits”, we generally refer to this as preventive care.  Your regular preventive dental appointments include a comprehensive examination of the hard tooth and bone structures and the soft tissue structures.  Cavity detecting x-rays (radiographs) are taken when necessary, periodontal charting helps to evaluate the health of the gum and bone supporting structures allowing us to have a complete picture of your entire oral structure.  Other services provided by our dental hygienists include periodontal soft tissue management, diagnostic photographs, sealants, Vizilite oral cancer screening and home care counseling and education.

What is restorative dentistry?

Restorative Dentistry is the science of restoring the dentition to optimal health. This can include fillings, inlays, onlays, crowns, implant restorations, bridges, partial dentures and dentures, in other words, "regular" dentistry!

What is cosmetic dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry is the science and art of appearance related dentistry. The world's largest organization devoted to cosmetic dentistry is The American Academy of Cosmetic Dentistry. This organization has approximately 7,600 members from over 56 counties. For more in depth information visit their website at www.aacd.com

Do you do 'general' or 'family' dentistry?

The short answer to this question is a clear and enthusiastic “Yes!” We are happy to address health, function and appearance. Whether you are concerned about replacing missing teeth, eliminating decay, supporting gum health or simply preventing disease, we are happy to provide your care. We want you to have what matters most to YOU! Feel free to discuss your concerns with any member of our team. If it's about your dental health, we want to help.

Is a smile makeover for someone like me?

Murphree Smile Designs have been chosen by people just like you and me—teachers, attorneys, at-home moms, CEOs, factory workers, retirees, students and just about anyone you might know. Our patients each have reported to us their own motives for changing their smiles. We understand this and spend the time to listen and understand what matters most to you. Read what our patients are saying about Dr. Murphree.”

Can you give me a ballpark idea of the cost of a new smile?

This is a very important question that deserves a meaningful answer . Of course the investment varies depending upon what you choose to do. At your treatment consultation, we will mutually decide upon a treatment plan. Since most of our patients are NOT millionaires and movie stars , we offer a menu of options designed to make our care as accessible as possible. Our financial coordinator will offer guidance and a variety of financial options.

How long will it take?

This depends upon what you choose to do and how you want to phase the treatment. Some patients choose to complete their treatment in as few visits as possible while others prefer to phase things over much longer periods. For those who want to finish up quickly we can often complete your care in a few well-planned visits. On the other hand, you can sometimes take ‘baby steps” over months or years. Together we will agree upon an appropriate pace.

Will I look OK during the process?

If your treatment includes a period of wearing temporary or transitional restorations, they will be crafted to resemble your final restorations as closely as possible.

Porcelain or Gold Crowns

Our menu of materials includes multiple choices for all-porcelain, gold, and porcelain faced metal crowns. Dr. Murphree will help you determine which choice is best for your particular goals and restorative needs.

Porcelain Faced Bridges

When the replacement of missing teeth is the goal, a porcelain bridge can sometimes offer a fixed, non-removable option which is similar in strength and appearance to your own natural teeth. There are multiple variations in the materials and techniques for preparing, placing and designing the appearance and function of bridges.

Tooth-Colored Restorations - Composite

For a non-metal alternative, composite resin restorations are available. These materials and techniques allow us to preserve more of your tooth's structure while crafting a white restoration designed and layered to blend with your natural tooth color.

Complex Rehabilitation

There are many reasons why one might require full mouth restorative dental reconstruction. A significantly compromised smile can be caused by periodontal disease, which can destroy supporting bone, causing mobility and eventual loss of teeth. Recurrent decay on existing restorations would be another reason. Maybe the patient has bite problems, causing excessive wear on the natural teeth, aggravating the TMJ or jaw joint.