At Delatorre Dentistry, Dr. Alina de la Torre uses a variety of dental restoration techniques to provide patients a means to restore and/or replace failing teeth. This allows her patients to retain their beautiful smile and perform proper chewing techniques that aid in digestion. Furthermore, tooth restoration helps prevent additional pressure from being placed on the teeth that surround the failing tooth/teeth.
Dr. De la Torre performs a variety of dental restoration techniques. The technique used depends on the problem the patient is experiencing.
A composite filling is a tooth-colored acrylic resin (plastic) and glass mixture used to restore decayed or chipped teeth. Composites are also used to improve one’s smile by changing the color or reshaping disfigured teeth. They provide good durability and resistance to fracture in small- to mid-size fillings and can be used on front and back teeth. They are a good choice for people who prefer that their fillings look more natural. The filling can be shaded to match the color of your existing teeth.
Dr. de la Torre uses porcelain inlays and onlays to address fractured fillings, large fillings, for cosmetic enhancement, and to correct fractured or broken teeth. The restoration is labeled an “inlay” when the material is bonded within the center of a tooth.
The restoration is labeled an “onlay” when the damage involves the side of the tooth or full coverage of the top of the tooth. Onlay restorations are also referred to as “partial crowns”.
This treatment is performed to avoid extracting a tooth that has an infection in the nerve or that has been traumatized. Although removing a tooth may be less expensive than a root canal and crown, many patients do not realize that once a tooth is removed, the adjacent teeth are negatively affected. This leads to pricier dental repairs in the future.
A crown encases the tooth’s surface; thus, restoring its original size and shape. Although other types of crowns are available, the majority of Dr. de la Torre’s patients choose a crown that consists of tooth-colored porcelain.
Dentures (commonly known as a plate) are custom-made replacements for missing teeth that can be taken in and out of the mouth. Dentures take some getting used to, and will never feel exactly the same as your natural teeth, however, today’s dentures are natural looking and more comfortable than ever!
Dentures can help you eat and speak more comfortably in addition to helping to improve your appearance and smile. Without the support from a denture, facial muscles can sag, making a person look older.
Dentures are custom-made in a dental laboratory from impressions taken of your mouth. The base of the upper denture covers the palate (the roof of your mouth), while the lower denture is shaped like a horseshoe to accommodate your tongue.
If you reside near Tampa, Fla., instead of avoiding the dentist, let Dr. Alina de la Torre and her staff perform your dental procedures while you are comfortably sedated. To learn more, contact Delatorre Dentistry at 813.792.9400 today.
I am very pleased with Dr. de la Torre’s office. I always have a positive experience and Dr. de la Torre and her staff truly care about their patients. Everyone on staff is friendly and knowledgeable. I recommend Dr. de la Torre to all my friends and neighbors.
– Nicole Mills
I used to dread going to the dentist. That’s not how I feel now, 10 years ago on the recommendation of a close friend I made an appointment with Dr. de la Torre’s office. I never knew that going to the dentist could be painless and comfortable. On top of that, the entire staff goes out of their way to make you feel welcome. 5 stars, A+++, I give them my highest recommendation.
– Vic Granowicz
I am pleased to say that Dr. de la Torre has been my dentist for many years. She is professional, efficient, personable, and gentle. Unlike other dental offices I’ve been to, her scheduling allows her to spend the time it takes to ensure that all your dental needs and concerns are properly addressed. Dr. de la Torre stays up to date with the latest in dental technology and procedures. Additionally, you’ll find that the office is always spotless and her staff very friendly and accommodating. I’ve been recommending Dr. de la Torre to all my friends and family for years and will continue to do so!
– Vivian Delgado
