Extractions/Preservation of Teeth
Dr. Cooke tries not to extract a tooth, but in some cases he feels it may be the best solution. In the case of a severely decayed or cracked tooth, very crowded teeth, or those that have lost substantial supporting bone, he may suggest an extraction.
In situations where a tooth is to be extracted, Dr. Cooke’s number one priority is making sure the patient is comfortable as he works to improve their oral health in a vital way.
Dr. Cooke uses a specific method when removing a tooth or teeth to ensure it is the safest, easiest, least invasive, and most comfortable possible. It is always his goal to preserve a tooth when possible. Dr. Cooke is an expert at suggesting several viable options to saving teeth that have been damaged.
Root Canals
There are many instances in which one can experience a toothache, and determining the exact cause of the problem is what Dr. Cooke excels at.
Through his careful evaluation, Dr. Cooke assesses the problem and discusses in detail the various solutions with the patient. He says, “Understanding that the architecture of a tooth is intricate and features layers of hard substances over a delicate core, it is the root that carries the nutrients and sensation to each tooth.” When significant pain is experienced, it can be that the root serving the tooth has caused the vessels and bundle of nerves inside to become inflamed, damaged, or under siege.
This can happen when one experiences a deep cavity which gives bacteria access to the inner nerve bundle inside the tooth. After conducting a thorough examination, Dr. Cooke can advise whether or not he feels the nerve will or will not recover properly, or whether any infection is inside. At this juncture, Dr. Cooke can determine whether a root canal is needed or not. If these type of situations are left untreated, the patient can have the infection travel into the jaw bone and more.
Dr. Cooke advises that root canals have a proven track record of success. It is an efficient way to eliminate pain and infection and save a tooth that is in peril.
Bone Grafting
Bone must be preserved for good oral health. Dr. Cooke says, “The reason bone grafting is so important in good dental care is that the bone around the teeth is of a very specialized nature and it doesn't regenerate itself when any of its’ mass is lost.”
It makes sense that good bone mass plays a vital role in the strength and stability of the teeth. In his experience, Dr. Cooke has found that even minor defects can impair the ability to maintain or save a tooth.
It is wonderful how bone can be repaired and strengthened by the addition of bone grafting material.
Tooth Replacement
With the continued advancements in dental science today, Dr. Cooke has many options to choose from in order to offer the perfect solution to replace a tooth a patient has lost. Prior to embarking on a treatment, Dr. Cooke always performs a thorough assessment of the individuals’ unique situation so that he can relay all options available so the patient can make a well-informed choice. If the patient has more than one tooth to replace, a variety of options may be open for discussion. Dr. Cooke is known for giving his patients choices so they can decide which treatment is best for them.
Being an award-winning dentist means exceptional, superior knowledge and highly regarded technique in areas like restorative dental work. Known for his friendly collaboration with patients, Dr. Cooke always wants each individual to have clear understanding of what is available to them as a treatment method.
Implants
Since we are not able to physical “grow” a new tooth, the very best alternative is to have a tooth implant. Dr. Cooke conducts a careful screening when determining whether a patient is a candidate for a tooth implant or not. These screenings include things like evaluating bone density. “A tooth implant is recognized as the longest lasting choice,” Dr. Cooke says. He advises patients of this because implants are inserted into the same existing bone that supports the person’s teeth. Therefore, it is the option that offers the greatest strength and function.
Only you and Dr. Cooke will know that your new tooth implant is not the real thing! With modern technology, these porcelain implants are very life-like and are practically identical to your natural teeth. In resolving problems with missing teeth, implants can be the anchors for dentures and bridges, creating a strong biting and chewing partnership. Dr. Cooke's has many patients that have received tooth implants and are loving every moment of the stability this option provides. The pleasing look of a tooth implant leaves individuals prideful.
The actual procedure involved in installing a tooth implant involves placing a dental anesthetic at the tooth site and carefully inserting an implant cylinder base (made of titanium) into the jaw bone. Dr. Cooke then places a smooth cover over that base for a healing period. Depending on the location of the implant and other factors, Dr. Cooke can make a temporary or permanent crown so that the patient does not suffer the effects of a less-than-ideal smile. Once Dr. Cooke has determined that the bone has healed properly, he then inserts a support post and anchors the brand new porcelain crown onto the implant. Magically, a brand new tooth has taken its place in the mouth for a beautiful smile!