The most common types of teeth repair and restoration

Teeth that have experienced damage as a result of cavities, decay, or injuries from an accident, typically require restoration. There are many options available to patients to help resolve these types of issues, which we will explore in this article.

What Exactly is Restorative Dentistry?

Restorative dentistry is a term used to describe the process by which a dentist uses technology as a means to resolve oral health problems in patients. Procedures involved in this process may include fillings or veneers, crowns, bridges, dental implants, and both full and partial dentures.

What are the Most Common Types of Teeth Repair and Restoration?

• Fillings. Fillings are often used as a means to help even the surface of a tooth so that it’s easier for a patient to bite and chew as normal. If the person has experienced tooth sensitivity as a result of enamel loss, fillings will offer much-needed relief once the procedure is complete. This is because fillings can protect against the hot and cold temperatures we experience from the different foods and drinks we consume on a daily basis. Fillings can be made from a mixture of porcelain and gold or silver amalgam, which matches the appearance of natural teeth.

• Crowns. Crowns are usually applied in cases where a person has chipped, cracked, or damaged teeth. This method helps restore a tooth back to its normal size and shape. Crowns are made from a custom-designed material to protect and repair teeth that have experienced injury from an accident or natural wear and tear. They fit over your natural teeth similar to a fitted cap.

• Bridges. If a patient has missing teeth, dental bridges, implants, and partial dentures can be used to improve the look and functionality of your teeth. Missing teeth often cause other teeth to shift as a way to accommodate the gap. Open spaces in your teeth can affect your ability to eat, can create a speech impediment, and puts you at increased risk for tooth decay and periodontal disease.

• Bonding. Dental bonding is a method used to repair chipped teeth, close gaps between teeth, and fix staining and misalignment. Bonding is a common method used in most dental procedures and can usually be completed within one visit.

• Veneers. Patients who are concerned about teeth discoloration or stains, mild crookedness, or misshapen teeth, may be able to use veneers to correct these common issues. They can even be used as a permanent solution to whiten teeth.

When trying to decide on the best option for restorative dentistry, it is important to consider both the physical impact on your health and the financial impact on your budget. Your dentist will try to preserve as much of your natural teeth as possible before deciding on full or partial dentures as an option. This will prevent you from having to remove and clean dentures on a regular basis. However, there are instances where full or partial dentures are the best option for a patient; specifically in situations where a person is missing teeth and has other health concerns preventing them from qualifying for dental implants.

There are a number of options available for dental restoration. Today, patients have the pick of the litter when it comes to repairing or replacing worn, decayed, missing or damaged teeth. Depending on your specific circumstances, your dentist will select an option based on the type of filling and what area it will be located in. He or she will choose from one of the following types of dental restorations:

• Direct. This type of restoration requires putting a filling into an already prepared tooth cavity right away. Your dentist has a variety of filling options to choose from and will make the appropriate selection according to the type of filling and its location.

• Indirect. An indirect tooth restoration procedure involves creating custom tooth replacements for the patient. These can come in the form of crowns, onlays, or inlays. The crown is designed to cover the surface of the tooth and protect it when a person is chewing. Inlays are placed within the cusps of the tooth, while onlays cover the tip of the cusp. Indirect tooth restoration requires multiple office visits since the onlays and inlays have to be created offsite in a dental laboratory.

Ready to discuss options for your dental restoration? Beach City Dental is here to answer your questions and get you on track for getting the smile you deserve. Give us a call today at 714-790-1662 to make your appointment!