Restorative dentistry is the general term for any and all dental procedures that restore your teeth. Procedures range from a simple cavity filling to being fitted with full arch dentures. The goal of restorative dentistry is to repair the teeth at the very first sign of a problem to prevent the need for further, more invasive procedures. But even if the condition of your teeth has deteriorated beyond a simple repair, there are still many options to restore your smile.
Restorative dentistry has many benefits, such as improving your oral health, preserving your jaw bone density, renewing your self confidence, and promoting your overall health and wellness. A healthy mouth can help to prevent heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. And you can smile with confidence knowing your teeth are healthy.
Here are the most common restorative dental procedures that dentists use to repair or replace your teeth.
Composite Fillings
When you develop a cavity, which is a hole in your tooth enamel caused by bacteria, it will need to be filled. If it is caught early, the cavity can be filled with composite resin, which is a material that looks like natural tooth enamel. The color can be designed to match your existing teeth so that it blends in. This procedure is typically short and inexpensive.
Inlays and Onlays
When you have a large cavity, it can be difficult to repair with just composite resin. In this case your tooth may need an inlay or an onlay. Essentially a partial crown, an inlay is placed on the inside of a tooth and an onlay is placed on the outside of a tooth. They are usually made of gold or porcelain and cemented or bonded into place.
Crowns
When a larger portion of the enamel is decayed, a crown may be required. A crown is a gold or porcelain tooth cap that is placed over the existing tooth. The tooth must be shaved down to accommodate the crown, which is then cemented in place over the remaining portion of the tooth. The natural root remains in place.
Bridges
If a tooth is non restorable, it may need to be replaced. A bridge is one option for replacing a missing or extracted tooth. A bridge is an artificial tooth suspended between two crowns that fit over the existing teeth on either side of the missing tooth. A bridge can replace one or more teeth in a row.
Dental Implants
Another option for replacing a missing or severely damaged tooth is a dental implant. Most dentists recommend this option because of its many benefits. A dental implant is a complete artificial tooth and root system. A titanium implant is surgically placed in the jaw where it fuses with the bone. Then a porcelain crown is then attached to the implant. A dental implant looks and functions like a natural tooth and preserves the bone density and support structure of the teeth.
Dentures
When all or the majority of the teeth in either the upper jaw, the lower jaw, or both are beyond saving, it may be in your best interest to get dentures. Dentures can be a partial or complete row of artificial teeth. They can attach to the healthy teeth that are left, the gums via suction and/or adhesives, or to a few dental implants that can be placed in the jaw.
Golia Dental Provides Restorative Dentistry to Patients of All Ages
No matter what kind of shape your teeth are in, Golia Dental can help you restore your oral health. After an initial evaluation, we will recommend any necessary treatments or restorative procedures to repair or replace damaged teeth. We also provide routine dental exams and cleanings to help you maintain healthy teeth and gums. Golia Dental is a family dental practice who can treat the whole family from the youngest to the oldest.
If it’s been a while since you’ve been to the dentist, don’t worry. There may not be any problems with your teeth at all. You may simply need a thorough cleaning to prevent any future dental health issues.
Call 203-248-7400 today to schedule a consultation or request an appointment. We look forward to restoring your smile.