Restorative Dentistry: Rebuilding Your Smile for Optimal Function and Health
Restorative dentistry focuses on repairing and rebuilding damaged teeth to restore both function and aesthetics. Whether due to decay, trauma, or wear over time, restorative treatments are designed to bring your teeth back to full strength and functionality, allowing you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.
What is Restorative Dentistry?
Restorative dentistry involves treatments that repair, restore, or replace damaged or missing teeth. From simple fillings to complex dental implants, restorative procedures help patients regain optimal oral health.
Fillings: Restoring Teeth Affected by Cavities
Dental fillings are used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay. Once the decayed portion of the tooth is removed, the space is filled with a durable material, such as composite resin or amalgam, to restore the tooth’s structure and prevent further decay.
- Composite Resin Fillings: These tooth-colored fillings blend with the natural shade of your teeth, making them ideal for visible areas.
- Amalgam Fillings: Made from a combination of metals, amalgam fillings are extremely durable and are often used for back teeth where chewing forces are stronger.
Crowns: Protecting and Strengthening Teeth
A dental crown is a custom-made cap that covers the entire surface of a damaged or weakened tooth. Crowns are commonly used to restore teeth that have been damaged by decay, large fillings, or fractures. They help protect the remaining tooth structure while restoring its appearance and function.
Dental Bridges: Replacing Missing Teeth
If you’re missing one or more teeth, a dental bridge can help restore your smile. A bridge consists of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) that are anchored to the surrounding natural teeth or dental implants. This not only restores the appearance of your smile but also prevents the remaining teeth from shifting out of place.
Dental Implants: A Permanent Solution for Tooth Loss
Dental implants are widely regarded as the best solution for replacing missing teeth. Implants consist of a titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone, where it acts as an artificial tooth root. Once the implant has integrated with the bone, a custom-made crown is attached to the post, providing a permanent, natural-looking solution that restores full function.