Is restorative dentistry really as important as people claim? It’s a hot topic in the dental world — but not everyone fully understands what is restorative dentistry or its benefits.
Read on to know all about restorative dentistry.
What is Restorative Dentistry?
Restorative dentistry is a type of dental treatment that focuses on fixing damaged or missing teeth. The main goal is to help you eat, speak, and smile confidently.
Your usual dentist can handle many of these treatments. Let’s look at some common ones:
- Crowns: A crown is like a strong cover placed on a weak tooth. It hides cracks or chips, making the tooth strong again. It also looks like a real tooth.
- Bridges: A bridge fills the gap left by lost teeth. It uses fake teeth held in place by the healthy ones on both sides of the gap.
- Dental Implants: Implants are metal posts placed in your jawbone. They act like roots for fake teeth. These roots hold crowns or bridges firmly in place.
- Dentures: Dentures are fake teeth you can remove. They fill in for lost teeth and make your smile whole again.
Who Might Need Restorative Dentistry?
The following are some of the problems that may warrant restorative dentistry.
- Cavities or Tooth Decay: Your teeth are left bare of their enamel when bacteria take over or when you are not as consistent with brushing. Sealants or crowns come in to save that damage, to give your teeth a brand new start.
- Broken or Cracked Teeth: If a tooth gets cracked or busted—whether from an accident or too much sugar—it’s time for a crown or filling to patch it up. They rebuild the strength of the tooth and enable you to bite without any fear.
- Missing Teeth: It is really a shame to lose a tooth and besides that it is a real problem to chew food. If you have a gap in your mouth because of an injury or decay, you have a choice of having an implant, dentures, or a bridge to replace the missing tooth and complete your smile.
According to the ADA, close to 91.8% of adults will experience tooth decay at some point in their lives, and restorative care is necessary for many patients.
So, if you have chipped tooth or a smile that requires some tender loving care, do not wait. Get it fixed!
Why is Dental Restoration Important?
Cosmetic dentistry is not only about fixing chipped or missing teeth to make you look better, it is about your health. There are various consequences of missing or broken teeth. For instance, when teeth are crowded, they are tough to reach for cleaning, making one more prone to cavity or gum disease.
Did you know? Gum disease affects 48%of adults who are 30 years old and above.
Leaving dental problems untreated causes things to get worse, which may result in one needing to have a root canal done, or have their tooth pulled out.
If you have concerns about your teeth, you should go to the dentist as soon as possible. A dentist can assess your oral health and recommend the best treatment options to restore your smile and keep your mouth healthy.
Common Dental Restorations You Should Know
If your teeth are damaged, you need to choose the right dental restoration to repair them. You have several options. Let’s explore these options to help you decide which one is best for you:
1. Dental Fillings
Dental fillings are a common treatment for tooth decay, or cavities. Bacteria erode the tooth’s outer layer, the enamel. To fix this, your dentist will remove the decayed part of the tooth and fill the hole with a substance that restores the tooth’s shape and function.
There are several types of filling materials:
- Amalgam Fillings: These fillings are made from a mix of metals like silver, tin, copper, and mercury. They are durable, cost-effective, but noticeable due to their silver color. Many people still use them because they can last for several years.
- Composite Fillings: These are made from a tooth-colored resin and are ideal for those who want a more natural appearance. They are also durable and adhere well to the tooth.
- Glass Ionomer Fillings: These fillings release fluoride to strengthen the tooth and prevent further decay. They are often used in moist areas like the gum line. While not as strong as other options, they are suitable for specific conditions.
2. Dental Crowns
A dental crown is a cap that covers a severely damaged tooth. Crowns are used for teeth with cavities, cracks, or fractures. They can also protect a tooth after a root canal or support a dental bridge.
Crowns come in different materials, such as:
- Porcelain: These crowns blend with your natural teeth and look real.
- Metal: The metal crowns are more resistant and they can be used at the back teeth, because the pressure exerted when chewing is higher.
- Porcelain-fused-to-metal: This option has the hardness of metal and the look of porcelain.
Your dentist will advise you on which kind of crown will be most suitable for you.
3. Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is applied in cases where one or more teeth are missing. It is a fixed prosthesis which is a combination of artificial teeth with the crown. The dentist cements these crowns onto the adjacent teeth next to the gap. This restores your smile and prevents the remaining teeth from shifting.
If you have a gap in your teeth or several gaps, then bridges are ideal for use. They also assist in retaining the facial contour of your face.
4. Dental Implants
Dental implants are one of the most effective techniques to use to replace missing teeth. The procedure involves implanting a metal, titanium screw into the jawbone to act as a tooth root. After the implant has stabilized and the bone has grown around it, a crown is put on top of it.
Here are some reasons why people often prefer implants:
- Better Oral Health: Dental implants help maintain the shape of the bone in your jaw that disintegrates when teeth are lost.
- Improved Speech: Implants are long term allies and provide sound foundation to artificial teeth, so that they may enhance the clarity of speech in Naturally.
- Boosted Confidence: Implants have the appearance and texture of natural teeth, and this improves the appearance of your mouth and confidence.
- Long-Lasting: Dental implants do not wear out if they are well taken care of; therefore, they are a worthy investment.
5. Dentures
Dentures are removable appliances that help fill the gap with one or more teeth in the mouth. They can be either partial or full:
- Partial Dentures: These are used when some teeth are missing but natural teeth are still remaining in the mouth.
- Full Dentures: These replace all the teeth in a row and are usually applied where there are no natural teeth at all.
Today’s dentures offer better comfort and look more like real teeth compared to those from the past. Dentists make them using acrylic or porcelain. These materials combine both functionality and appearance, providing a practical and realistic solution for people with missing teeth.
Is Restorative Dentistry Safe?
Although restorative dentistry is a popular and successful method of treating damaged teeth, it’s crucial to be aware of the dangers.
Common Risks
- Sensitivity: Most individuals have some temporary heightened sensation following treatments such as fillings or crowns. This normally resolves on its own.
- Infection: Sometimes, infections can occur, particularly when the rules of hygiene are not being followed strictly. That is why it is important to make sure that your mouth is clean and that you see your dentist on a regular basis.
- Allergic Reactions: Others may have an allergy to some of the materials used in the restoration process such as metals. Your dentist will be able to recommend materials that should not be hazardous to your health.
Long-Term Considerations
- Wear and Tear: Dental restorations, for example, crowns can wear out or become loose after sometime. These problems should be as well, detected and treated at an early stage through dental check up.
- Untreated Cavities: If you do not go for a check up or treatment, then it can progress to a root canal or even extraction.
Note: If you have any signs of discomfort, inflammation or any other discomfort following any dental work, you should consult your dentist. The disease can be managed and cured if appropriate measures are taken as soon as symptoms appear.
Last Words
The primary aim of restorative dental treatments is to fix broken teeth and fill in for the ones that are lost. These treatments work well, but the best way to keep your teeth healthy is through prevention. Visiting your dentist regularly, brushing and flossing daily, and eating a healthy diet can cut down the need for these fixes by a big margin.
Studies show that nearly 90% of dental problems can be avoided with proper care. Tackling dental concerns early is key to steering clear of complicated and costly treatments later on.
FAQs
What is restoration in dentistry?
Restoration in dentistry is the process of repairing or replacing any damaged, decayed or missing teeth. Restorative procedures include simple ones such as fillings, crowns, bridges, implants, and dentures.
Is restorative dentistry worth it?
Yes, it is worth it. Restorative dentistry also prevents other dental problems, beautifies your smile, and helps you chew and speak properly.
What is the cost of restorative dentistry?
The cost depends on the type of procedure to be done and the type of materials to be used. Here ‘s is the quick look at common restoration costs:
Dental Bridges: $1,500–$16,000. A three-unit bridge may cost $500-$1,500.
Dental Implants: They cost between $3,100 to $5,800 depending on what procedure may also require bone grafts.
Dental Fillings:
- Amalgam (metal): $50–$150 for 1–2 teeth.
- Composite (tooth-colored): $90–$250 for 1–2 teeth.
- Gold: $250–$4,500 for 1–2 teeth.
Talk to your dentist about your individual case to know how much you will be charged in the end.
How long does it take to recover after a restorative dentistry procedure?
Recovery time depends on the type of procedure:
- Fillings: Immediate recovery.
- Crowns or Bridges: 1–2 days.
- Implants: A few days to weeks, depending on healing needs. Your dentist can provide a personalized recovery plan based on your treatment.
