An Introduction to Dental Bridges, by Dr. Charles Silk DDS

Based in New York City, Dr. Charles Silk DDS has treated thousands of patients. Dr. Charles Silk DDS specializes in cosmetic and implant dentistry and offers a wide range of procedures, including veneers, bonding, whitening, Invisalign, and dental bridges. Here he explains the basics of dental bridges and their use in oral health.

Dental bridges are designed to fill a space left by one or more missing teeth. The bridge consists of two crowns, one on the tooth on each side of the gap. Called abutment teeth, these two teeth support false teeth called pontics on the foundation of the two crowns. Pontics can be made from a wide range of materials, including porcelain, alloys, and gold. Bridges can rest on either natural teeth or implants, depending on the patient’s unique situation.

Replacing missing teeth with a dental bridge restores the appearance of the patient’s smile, maintains the normal shape of the face, and allows patients to chew and speak normally. Bridges can also correct the bite, distributing pressure evenly and preventing other teeth from moving into the gap.

Dental bridges require two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the dentist prepares the abutment teeth for their crowns by recontouring them and removing a portion of the enamel in order to make space for the crown. After the teeth have been prepared, the dentist takes an impression of the patient’s mouth to build the custom bridge, pontics, and crowns to fit precisely. The doctor then fits a temporary bridge to protect the patient’s teeth and gums while the bridge is made.

On a second visit, the dentist removes the temporary bridge and adjusts the permanent bridge to fit properly. Usually, the dentist begins by temporarily cementing the dental bridge in place to allow a few weeks in which to ensure a perfect fit before cementing the framework and bridge permanently.

Invisalign

Invisalign Patients who want to achieve a beautiful smile without the heavy look of traditional braces or the radical changes posed by veneers often turn to the Invisalign product to create an attractive smile. By far the least invasive teeth-straightening method on the market today, Invisalign is comprised of a custom system of aligners that progressively shift teeth into place.

When a patient decides to undergo the life-changing transformation of a new Invisalign smile, his or her orthodontist or dentist will design specially made aligners. These Invisalign aligners are changed every two weeks, and gradually shift teeth into the proper place. By the time a patient takes off the final aligner, his or her teeth have been adjusted to create the perfect Invisalign smile.

One of the most exciting things about the Invisalign system is that teeth can be straightened without the discomfort of traditional braces. Traditional wire and bracket braces are quite noticeable, but because Invisalign aligners are transparent, they are virtually invisible. Moreover, Invisalign aligners can be removed for special occasions and when posing in photographs.

Because Invisalign aligners are removable, they also do not hinder regular brushing and flossing efforts as wire and bracket braces can. While metal braces still may be the best option for some patients, Invisalign corrects a number of issues that were once only resolved by conventional orthodontics. Among the alignment problems that Invisalign fixes are overcrowding, widely spaced teeth, overbite, underbite, and crossbite.

For more information on the incredible Invisalign system, visit http://charlessilkdds.com/.

The Dental Implant Process

As a Prosthodontist, Charles Silk, D.D.S. specializes in dental restoration and replacement, including implant procedures. Modern dental implants are anchored in the jawbone and, prior to surgery, the shape and dimensions of the jaw must be clearly mapped in order to ensure proper placement. During the procedure, the bone is prepared using a hand osteotome or precision drill and care is taken to avoid any vital structures, such as nerves. Generally, the hole in the bone is created through several stages, starting with a pilot hole that is slowly expanded to accommodate the implant. Once the hole is the correct size, the implant is screwed into the bone using an exact torque that will not overload the surrounding bone. The implant then requires time to integrate with the bone before a tooth is affixed to it, ensuring that the implant will not move once a tooth is placed on it. In order for a dental implant to successfully take, the jaw must contain enough strong bone to support the implant. If the jaw is unable to provide this support, bone grafts are able to bolster it. All surrounding tissues, such as the gums, must also be in good health to prevent rejection. The type of tooth prosthesis that the prosthodontist uses depends on each patient’s specific circumstances. The actual implant is determined by the prosthesis. Once the prosthodontist has successfully identified the best prosthesis, he or she will subsequently engineer the implant with the length and threading necessary to support the new tooth.

What Is a Prosthodontist?

Based in New York, Dr. Charles Silk, D.D.S. is a Prosthodontist with decades of experience who has worked with a range of celebrities and other high-profile patients. Prosthodontics is a dental specialty focused on the diagnosis, rehabilitation, and treatment of individuals with missing teeth or irregular dental patterns. In his capacity as a Prosthodontist, Dr. Charles Silk, D.D.S. performs dental implant procedures and a broad array of cosmetic treatments. The field of prosthodontics is regulated by the American College of Prosthodontists, which requires that prosthodontists receive at least three years of additional training after graduating from dental school. The training includes intensive clinical education, as well as a focused study of the head, neck, and jaw, including common problems such as temporomandibular joint disorder (TMJ) and sleep apnea. Due to the rigors of postgraduate training required by prosthodontics, only about 3,200 prosthodontists practice in the United States, compared to more than 170,000 general dentists. Dr. Charles Silk, D.D.S. earned his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the New York University College of Dentistry, subsequently completing the school’s Advance Education Program in Prosthodontics. He remains informed about the most recent advances in prosthodontics as an active participant in the American College of Prosthodontists, the International Academy for Dental Facial Aesthetics, and the First District Dental Society. Through his training, Dr. Charles Silk, D.D.S. has developed a deep understanding of aesthetics and how to maintain a healthy mouth through comprehensive dental treatment plans. Recently, his dedication to the field was honored when he was named one of Westchester’s Best Dentists, an award bestowed by his dental peers.

Charles Silk, DDS volunteers at NYU Health Center

Charles Silk, DDS was recently voted as one of Manhattan’s Top Dentists by noted publication Westchester Magazine. Recognized for his skill in cosmetic dentistry as well as expertise in addressing complex dental problems, his clients include many celebrities and other high-profile media professionals. Charles Silk, DDS, who received his Doctor of Dental Surgery from the esteemed New York University College of Dentistry, volunteers his professional service at that school’s health center, The New York University Student Health Center. The Health Center is an integral aspect of the student community of NYU. Committed to the health and well-being of its students, the NYU Health Center offers routine, preventive, and emergency care across a spectrum of medical needs. In its mission statement, the center affirms its recognition of the importance of maintaining the proper health of all students in order to enhance their academic experience. The center ensures that it succeeds in its goal by making health services readily available and hassle-free. The New York University Student Health Center serves all students at a reduced charge or no charge. Among their many services, the NYU Health Center provides dental care to students suffering from sudden dental emergencies. This care includes treatment of a condition such as swelling, significant pain, or bleeding that requires immediate attention. NYU students have access to such emergency dental care provided by excellent and highly trained dentists at no cost. Charles Silk, DDS is honored to be a part of his alma mater’s Health Center and is dedicated to ensuring that all students have access to expert dental care.

American Red Cross Sailing Program, Westchester County

Having recently completed the American Red Cross Sailing Program, Charles Silk DDS is now able to compete in a myriad of sailing racing events in Westchester County in New York. Westchester County is located on the southeastern tip of New York State. Situated between New York City, Long Island Sound, Putnam County, and Connecticut, Westchester County enjoys the beautiful Hudson River to its west, where sailing is a popular sport pursued competitively and recreationally by many in the area.

American Red Cross Sailing provides thorough and rigorous training programs and originally trained many sailing instructors who work on the Hudson River. For example, instructors at the Society for the Education of American Sailors (SEAS), a non-profit organization that provides sailing and boating lessons, trained through the American Red Cross Sailing program.

Since aquiring his training, Charles Silk, DDS looks forward to competing in sailing racing events in the Hudson River.

Charles Silk, DDS Named One of Westchester’s Top Dentists

In June 2009, Prosthodontist Charles Silk, DDS was named one of Westchester’s Best Dentists, an honor based solely on the votes of his professional peers. Charles Silk, DDS was chosen for his exemplary patient care, extensive education, and years of experience. Dr. Charles Silk’s usage of state-of-the-art technology and innovative techniques, combined with his commitment to delivering results also factored into his inclusion on the list. Since entering the dental field, Charles Silk, DDS has made a distinct impression on colleagues and patients alike. Dr. Charles Silk’s track record also includes awards such as the I. Kenneth Addison Prosthodontic Award from the New York University College of Dentistry, the First Prize Table Clinic from the New York Chapter of the American College of Prosthodontists Meeting, and the First Prize Table Clinic from the American College of Prosthodontists Meeting. Dr. Charles Silk’s work has attracted a number of high-profile patients, including celebrities, models, and actors. His expertise has additionally been sought by a number of magazines, radio stations, and more. Park South Dental 200 Central Park South, Suite 214 New York, NY 10019 212-977-6924

Charles Silk, DDS – Beyond the Dental Chair

Award-winning Prosthodontist Charles Silk, DDS maintains several passions beyond his professional endeavors. Committed to both personal and professional excellence, Charles Silk, DDS maintains an active role within his community. Charles Silk, DDS raises funds for the fight against breast cancer. Additionally, Charles Silk, DDS regularly donates his time to the New York University Health Center. Leading an active, healthy life with involvement in sports such as skiing, basketball, and sailing, Charles Silk, DDS also spends his limited free time honing his athletic skills. An avid skier, New York-resident Charles Silk, DDS has traveled to distant locales, such as New Zealand and Switzerland, to experience their famed snowy slopes. Charles Silk, DDS actively contributes to the Hunter Mountain Ski Team, based in upstate New York. Charles Silk, DDS is also a former member of the U.S. Maccabiah Basketball team, with which he played on an international basis. Most recently, Charles Silk, DDS completed the American Red Cross sailing program, which will now enable him to participate in a number of racing and sailing events. Charles Silk, DDS has remained close to home with his sailing endeavors and generally sails in Westchester County. Park South Dental 200 Central Park South, Suite 214 New York, NY 10019 212-977-6924 www.charlessilkdds.com www.parksouthdental.com