Dental crowns, also known as "caps," preserve the functionality of damaged teeth. A dental crown may be used to protect a cracked tooth, restore functionality of a tooth with excessive decay or replace a pre-existing crown. The purpose of a dental crown is to encase a needy tooth with a custom-designed material.

If tooth decay or damage is so extensive that veneers, direct composite bonding or other conservative treatments aren't viable treatment options — or if you have undergone root canal therapy —dental crowns may be your best option.

One or more missing teeth can adversely affect the appearance and functionality of your smile. Missing teeth can cause a variety of problems including: change in occlusion (bite), shifting of the teeth, temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ), speech impediments, an increased risk for periodontal disease and a greater chance of tooth decay.

Dental bridges, like implants and partial dentures, are used to replace missing teeth. For many of our patients, dental bridges are the best oral solution to their problems.

Complete dentures are used to replace missing teeth for people with no remaining teeth. Dentures may also be used for people who have lost several teeth through accident or illness.

Tooth loss may result from periodontal disease (gum disease), tooth decay, or traumatic injury. It is very important to replace missing teeth. The ill effects of not doing so can be a shift in remaining teeth, an inability to bite and chew properly, as well as a sagging facial appearance, which makes one appear older than they are.

The beauty of dentures today is that they are designed to be comfortable and functional. They are very similar in appearance to natural teeth, and can improve a smile or facial appearance.

Night guards are a form of mouth guards and are used to treat teeth grinding (bruxism), which can wear down teeth and contribute to temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder.

In order to be truly effective, night guards should be custom fit for the individual patient. At Greater Boston Dental we can fit you with the most comfortable and effective night guards.

Sports dentistry involves prevention of injury to the hard and soft tissues of the mouth, through the use of properly fitted mouth guards. While commercially available sports guards are available, they often do not provide the protection one needs. The best option for those who need sports mouth guards is to have a custom made guard that fits properly.