What is restorative dentistry?
Restorative dentistry focuses on restoring or replacing teeth. The main goal of restorative dentistry is to improve oral health and chewing function.
Restorative dentistry is usually performed by general dentists. Examples of restorative dental procedures include crowns, bridges, implants, and dentures.
Who needs restorative dentistry?
You may need restorative dentistry if you have:
Cavities/tooth decay.
Damaged or broken teeth.
Missing teeth.
What is the difference between restorative dentistry and cosmetic dentistry?
Restorative dentistry focuses on improving the health and function of your mouth and teeth. Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of your smile.
Some dental procedures offer both functional and cosmetic improvements (cosmetic restorative dentistry). For example, dental crowns improve chewing function and can also make your smile look more even and beautiful.
Why are restorative dentistry important?
Dental restorations offer you the chance for long-term oral health. Your dentist can help restore your smile and full function of your teeth by repairing and restoring damaged or decayed teeth, improving your ability to eat, speak, and chew.
Different Types of Dental Restorations
Fillings
When bacteria eat away at your tooth enamel and cause a hole, it’s called a cavity. Smaller cavities are usually treated with a dental filling.
During this procedure, your dentist removes the decayed part of your tooth, then fills the hole with a tooth-colored composite material. This stops the progression of tooth decay and reduces the risk of further damage.
Crowns
Dentists use dental crowns to repair large cavities or to repair broken teeth. Sometimes called a cap, a crown is placed over your entire tooth.
To place a dental crown, your dentist must remove some of your tooth’s natural enamel. So, they reshape your tooth (shave down part of your tooth), then place a crown over it.
Inlays and Onlays
Sometimes a cavity is too big for a filling, but too small for a crown. In cases like this, your dentist may recommend an inlay or onlay. These custom-made restorations fit into your natural tooth structure like puzzle pieces. Your dentist cements them in place permanently.
Inlays and onlays are similar. While an inlay fills the area between your tooth’s cusps, an onlay also covers at least one cusp.
Root canal treatment
Sometimes a cavity or crack in your tooth goes deep enough that it reaches the pulp. If bacteria gets into your tooth’s pulp, it can cause a painful infection. In these cases, a root canal treatment is necessary.
During this procedure, your dentist removes the diseased pulp, including the tiny nerves and blood vessels inside your tooth. Then, they thoroughly clean and disinfect the inside surfaces of your tooth, then fill the canals with a dental rubber material called gutta-percha. Then, a filling is placed to seal the tooth and keep bacteria out.
In most cases, people who undergo root canal treatment also need a crown to provide additional strength and support.
Bridges
A dental bridge can replace a missing tooth or a row of missing teeth. A bridge consists of artificial teeth with dental crowns on either side. Your dentist will modify (mill) your natural teeth on either side of the gap. The bridge is then bonded to your natural teeth. The crowns are placed over your natural teeth, and the artificial teeth cover the space between them.
Dental Implants
A dental implant is a small, threaded post that replaces the root of a missing tooth. When your dentist adds a crown to your implant, it functions just like a natural tooth.
Your dentist can restore dental implants with crowns, bridges, and even dentures. Unlike traditional crowns and bridges, implants do not require changing your natural teeth. Many dentists consider implants to be the gold standard of tooth replacement.
Dentures
Dentures are another traditional tooth replacement option. Complete dentures replace an entire arch of missing teeth. Partial dentures replace multiple missing teeth in different areas. The dentures rest on your gums and are supported by the jawbone underneath.
You can also get implant-supported dentures. These are similar to traditional dentures. But instead of resting on your gums for support, they are attached to dental implants. This offers much greater stability than conventional dentures.
What are the benefits of restorative dentistry?
Restorative dentistry offers a wide range of benefits for people of all ages. For example, it can:
Restore oral health.
Improve chewing function.
Eliminate tooth pain.
Reduce the risk of future dental problems.
Improve the appearance of your smile.
What are the risks of restorative dentistry?
The most common risk is general discomfort or sensitivity after a restorative dental procedure. Rarely, you may develop an infection or allergic reaction to the metals used.
There are very few risks involved in dental restorations. However, crowns, for example, can chip or become loose. If you have deep cavities or delay filling your cavities, it could lead to root canal treatment or tooth extraction. If you have a problem with your teeth, contact Dr. Hashemi’s office immediately.
How long is the recovery time after a restorative dental procedure?
This depends on several factors, including the type of procedure and the number of teeth that need treatment. For example, someone who has one cavity filled may be able to resume normal activities immediately. However, someone who has four dental implants may need a few days off to recover. Your dentist can tell you what kind of recovery timeline to expect in your situation. If you have decayed, damaged, or missing teeth, consult a dentist. They can help restore the health, function, and appearance of your smile.
You should also visit your dentist regularly for checkups and dental cleanings. In addition, be sure to practice good oral hygiene at home in between visits. If you have a dental restoration that feels “off” or leaves a bad taste, contact us immediately for more guidance.
