Losing teeth or dealing with failed dental treatments can feel overwhelming. It might even mean more trips to the dentist than you’d like. But don’t worry, Dr. Tom Trinkner is here to help. He offers restorative treatments and second opinions to help you get your smile back, both in how it looks and how it works.
With over 40 years of combined experience, our dental team is skilled at solving even the toughest dental problems. Dr. Trinkner isn’t just a dentist, he’s also a teacher who shares the latest techniques with other dentists. The best advancements in restorative and cosmetic dentistry happen when professionals work together. Dr. Trinkner is one of the most trusted restorative dentists in Columbia, SC.
At our Columbia dental office, we create custom treatments for missing teeth, worn or broken teeth, misshapen teeth, and other issues. After a thorough exam, we’ll put together a personalized plan based on your needs and goals. We will look at the health and function of your entire mouth to make sure everything works together perfectly.
Comprehensive Restorative Dentistry
Before any restorative procedure, Dr. Trinkner will create a detailed treatment plan just for you. This plan will be based on diagnostic records, model work, and a consultation where we listen to your concerns and goals. Our restorative services will improve your oral health and the way your mouth works, bringing balance back to your smile. These services include dental bridges, periodontal therapy, dental crowns, dental implants, TMJ therapy, and more.
No matter what your dental needs are, we’re here to help you feel confident and comfortable with your smile again. Let’s work together to get your oral health back on track!
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is an effective way to replace one or two missing teeth. It not only restores your mouth’s function but also improves the appearance of your smile. A dental bridge will make your smile look natural and help maintain the normal shape of your face.
Bridges also make sure that your other teeth don’t move into the gap and help your bite. By restoring your mouth’s normal functions, like speaking and eating, bridges help prevent future issues. To learn more about our dental bridge services, see Dental Bridges.
Periodontal Therapy
Periodontal therapy is a treatment we offer to help treat and prevent gum disease. Common signs of gum disease include red, swollen, or tender gums. Other signs include bleeding when brushing or flossing, and receding gums that can cause loose teeth.
If you notice any of these symptoms or think you might have gum disease, get treatment right away to avoid further damage. To learn more about how we can help stop your bleeding gums, see Periodontal Therapy.
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are a restoration we use to cover and protect a damaged tooth. A crown is a tooth-shaped cap that fits over a damaged or decayed tooth, improving both its look and strength. Our dental crowns can help our patients in many ways, including:
- Restore a broken tooth
- Restore a worn-down tooth
- Protect a weakened tooth from breaking
- Cover a dental implant
- Protect a tooth after a root canal procedure
- Improve the look of a discolored or misshapen tooth
- Cover a large filling
Our porcelain crowns are popular because they last for many years, resist staining, and closely match the color of natural teeth. To learn more about our porcelain tooth crowns, see Dental Crowns.
Dental Implants
Dr. Trinkner offers affordable dental implants in Columbia, SC. Implants are a permanent and natural-looking solution for missing teeth. Dental implants help prevent further damage to your remaining teeth by replacing missing ones. The process involves placing a biocompatible titanium post into the jawbone to serve as an artificial root.
After the implant is placed, we attach an abutment and securely fit a prosthetic tooth on top. This tooth looks and works just like a natural one and will last for many years.
The dental implant procedure typically takes two or more visits to complete. We also offer aftercare to help ensure the implant’s success. A strong, healthy jawbone is needed for the procedure to work. To learn more about our dental implant services, see Dental Implants.
TMJ Therapy
Your oral health isn’t just about your teeth and gums. Your jaw joints, called temporomandibular joints (TMJ), are important for how comfortable and healthy your bite feels.
We offer TMJ therapy to help patients with jaw pain and other symptoms related to Temporomandibular Joint Disorders (TMD). Issues with the TMJ can lead to bite problems that affect your teeth, gums, jaw, and overall mouth health.
Our dentists will start by assessing and diagnosing the problem. Once we know what’s wrong, we may suggest treatments like mouthguards, splints, or other dental appliances to ease discomfort. Medications can also help reduce inflammation and pain related to TMJ disorders.
We customize all treatments to fit each person’s specific needs, based on how severe the condition is. To learn more about our TMJ treatment services, see TMJ Therapy.
Restorative Dentistry Case
Mac came to our Columbia dental office by referral for management of extensive teeth grinding and tooth enamel erosion. Upon evaluation, we placed Mac in a Kois deprogrammer to relax his muscles. Using his diagnostic models, we were able to mock up a treatment design and plan.
The plan was to find a position to rebuild his mouth, prepare his teeth, and modify and test the treatment design in his mouth. Dr. Trinkner then duplicated the final temporary position onto a final restoration. See more restorative dentistry before & after photos in our Clinical Cases Gallery.
FAQs About Restorative Dentistry
Are Restorative Treatments Covered by Insurance?
Many dental insurance plans cover at least part of the cost of restorative treatments like fillings, crowns, and bridges. Coverage for implants or more advanced procedures may vary. Our team can help you understand your benefits and explore payment options.
How Long do Dental Crowns Last?
With proper care, dental crowns can last 10 to 15 years or even longer. Regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups are key to maintaining their longevity.
Can I Get Dental Implants if I have Gum Disease?
Gum disease needs to be treated before dental implants can be placed. Healthy gums and a strong jawbone are essential for the success of the implant. Dr. Trinkner can help you address gum disease first and then plan for implants.
Is TMJ Therapy Painful?
TMJ therapy relieves pain, it doesn’t cause it. Treatments like mouthguards or splints are comfortable and help reduce jaw discomfort over time.
How Long Does it Take to Get a Dental Bridge?
The process usually takes two or three visits. During the first visit, we prepare the teeth and take impressions. The bridge is then custom-made in a lab and fitted during a follow-up appointment.
What if I’m Nervous About Dental Procedures?
We understand dental anxiety and offer gentle patient-focused care to make you feel comfortable. Let us know your concerns, and we’ll work with you to ensure a stress-free experience.
Can I Eat Normally after Getting Restorative Treatments?
Yes, restorative treatments like crowns, bridges, and implants restore your ability to eat comfortably. You should be able to enjoy your favorite foods again after a short adjustment period.
If you have more questions or want to schedule a consultation, call Dr. Trinkner’s office at 803-400-8729 or book an appointment online. Let’s work together to restore your smile and improve your oral health!
Request a Dental Exam Today
Our dental team strives to give you treatments that are as gentle as possible. We also take into account your bite and appearance to ensure the best results.
To request an appointment and ensure long-term oral health, call our dentistry in Columbia, SC, at 803-400-8729 today.