Dental providers of: Delta Dental, Cigna PPO, Aetna PPO, Anthem Blue Cross, The Guardian , ConnectiCare and United Concordia
Colite Family Dentistry is a team of skilled, compassionate professionals focused on meeting the dental needs of all ages by offering a wide range of services. Our family-oriented practice has been dedicated to the maintenance and improvement of oral health serving the Southington community for over 37 years.
At Colite Family Dentistry we pride ourselves on providing personalized patient care, making sure your concerns and questions are addressed. We believe patient education is a priority, enabling you to make informed choices and feel confident in your treatment. We realize that each person has unique needs, which is why we will work with you to develop a customized plan to meet your expectations and desires. Every Individual deserves to have a healthy, attractive smile. In order to achieve that goal, Colite Family Dentistry uses the most advanced technology, the latest techniques and the highest quality materials available
We understand that it is not easy to find time in your busy day to take care of your dental needs, which is why we provide extended office hours for your convenience.
Bonding
Bonding is the process of attaching tooth-colored filling material to teeth for restorative and/or cosmetic purposes. Bonding can be used to restore decayed or chipped teeth, re-surface stained teeth, or close spaces between teeth.
Crowns
A dental crown, also known as a cap, covers the outer surface of a tooth. Crowns may be used to restore the shape of teeth, provide strength to broken or damaged teeth, or to create a more natural, pleasing appearance. Crowns may be made from porcelain, ceramic, gold or a combination of materials in order to best suit your needs. A crown is permanently bonded to the prepared tooth beneath and will protect that tooth for many years.
Bridges
A fixed bridge is an artificial tooth held in place by a crown on either side. Bridges are used to fill spaces left by missing teeth. Bridge placement not only restores appearance and function but also prevents the remaining teeth from drifting out of place and causing jaw problems. A fixed bridge is made of tooth-colored porcelain, precious metal or a combination of both for strength, durability and natural appearance. Dental bridges are permanently placed and with proper care can last for many years.
Full Dentures
Full dentures are ideal for patients who have lost all their upper or lower teeth. A full set of dentures can restore both function and appearance allowing a patient to eat, speak and smile with confidence. Full dentures are removable but in certain situations your dentist may recommend implants (see section on Implants) to hold the dentures in place, which greatly increases the denture’s stability and retention.
Partial Dentures
A partial denture is a removable prosthesis that is an option for patients who have lost multiple teeth, leaving spaces which are too large to be filled in with a fixed bridge. The remaining teeth are used to anchor the denture in place, increasing the stability of the denture. Partials not only improve appearance but also allow patients to speak and chew with comfort, while providing support to surrounding teeth and minimizing periodontal (gum) problems by maintaining proper occlusion or bite.
Extractions
An extraction is the removal of a tooth due to decay, infection or gum disease. At Colite Family Dentistry our dentists have the experience to safely extract teeth when necessary.
Periodontal (Gum) Disease
Periodontal disease affects the gums and also the bone supporting the teeth. It is caused by the build-up of food and bacteria (plaque) on the tooth surface, above and below the gum-line. Periodontal disease is known as a “silent” disease because it is rarely painful. If left untreated it will continue to progress and may ultimately result in tooth loss. In the initial stages, known more commonly as gingivitis, the disease is easily treated and reversible. If the disease advances, bacteria spreads between the teeth and gums, causing pockets to form. These pockets soon become infected and gradually deteriorate both the gums and supporting bone, loosening teeth in the process. This advanced stage of gum disease is more commonly known as periodontitis. Unfortunately at this point, while the disease is still treatable, damage to the supporting bone is often irreversible. Regular dental cleaning and check-ups are helpful in preventing this disease.
Root Canals
Root canal therapy is performed to remove an infection that develops within the root of a tooth as a result of decay or injury. When this area becomes infected, the bacteria and damaged nerve tissue must be removed. After the root canal system is properly cleaned and shaped, the root of the tooth is then filled and sealed to prevent a recurring infection.
Sealants
Sealants are bonded onto teeth that have deep and narrow grooves in order to prevent bacteria and food particles from lodging there and causing decay. Children and individuals with deep grooves in their teeth are the best candidates for dental sealants.
Implants and Implant Crowns
Dental implants are used to permanently replace teeth in areas where tooth loss has occurred. Implants are the most durable, comfortable, and technologically advanced way to replace lost teeth. A dental implant is a titanium “root” which is used to hold a crown in place in order to achieve the appearance of a natural tooth. Through a minor procedure by a local dental surgeon, this titanium root implant is placed into the jawbone, much like the root of a natural tooth. After a period of healing, the process is completed at Colite Family Dentistry where we permanently attach a crown to the implant. The crown will be made to blend in with the shade of the surrounding teeth and restore their natural form and function.
Composite Fillings
Composite or tooth-colored fillings are a reliable alternative to the conventional silver-colored fillings. Composite fillings are bonded to teeth, making them stronger and more resistant to fractures.
Porcelain Veneers
Porcelain veneers are thin shells of porcelain bonded to the front and sides of teeth. Porcelain veneers can be used to enhance your smile by covering chipped, warn, or stained teeth. Since porcelain is translucent, veneers are virtually indistinguishable from natural teeth, leaving patients with a straight, sparkling-white smile.
Teeth Whitening
Teeth whitening is a process that lightens and brightens your existing shade of tooth color. By constructing “trays,” which are made from exact molds of your teeth, the whitening solution placed in the trays is held in perfect contact with your teeth. By using the trays and whitening solution for an hour a day over a two-week period, you can whiten your teeth safely and effectively.
