What is restorative dentistry?
Restorative dentistry does just what the name suggests: It restores the look and function of your smile. Patients often seek restorative dentistry procedures when they have gaps in their smile.
Filling in and fixing these gaps:
- Helps keep your teeth properly aligned
- Makes oral hygiene easier and prevents plaque buildup
- Improves your appearance and self-esteem
Restorative dentistry improves your long-term dental health, too. If you have missing teeth, your remaining teeth tend to shift, which causes further bite complications. Your smile becomes distorted and, over time, your gums and jawbone degrade.
What restorative dentistry options are there?
Restorative dentistry fills in the gaps left by missing teeth or improves the look of compromised teeth so they function and look as natural as possible.
Many types of restorations are available. The type that’s right for you depends on your particular case.
Fillings
A filling is a common restoration for minor decay. Getting a filling involves clearing out decayed portions of a tooth and filling them in with porcelain, silver amalgam, tooth-colored plastic, gold, or composite resin. With this type of restoration, much of your natural tooth and tooth root are preserved.
Crowns
Crowns are tooth-shaped caps placed securely over a damaged tooth or implant. A crown may be crafted from porcelain or safe metals. Porcelain crowns match the color and translucency of your natural teeth so they blend right into your smile.
Dental implants
Dental implants are a sturdy, effective restoration that mimic your missing tooth’s natural root. Implants consist of metal posts surgically inserted into your jawbone. Once fully synthesized into the bone, your dentist places a crown on top of the implant to restore your smile and full function. Dental implants look and feel just like your natural teeth.
Dentures
Partial and full dentures replace missing teeth. A partial denture replaces just a few teeth, while full dentures replace an entire row. Full dentures are held in place using an adhesive. Partial dentures have clasps that securely anchor to existing teeth and need no adhesive. Dentures are removable for cleaning and sleeping.
How do I care for dental restorations?
Dental restorations like implants, crowns, and fillings require the same care as your natural teeth. Follow the good hygiene principles of brushing twice per day, flossing once per day, and getting regular professional cleanings and checkups.
Dentures are easy to care for, too. You simply remove them to soak and brush them thoroughly.
Avoid hard foods, such as popcorn kernels, as they can damage crowns, bridges, fillings, and implants. With dentures, you may have some restrictions as to what you can comfortably eat. The team at Archie Dental Group will give you recommendations.
If you’re in need of restorative dentistry, call Archie Dental Group to set up a consultation or book online today.
