7 Types of Restorative Dentistry and Why You Might Need Them
Restorative dentistry involves procedures and treatments performed to repair or restore the teeth to their normal state.
It is carried out when the tissues of the teeth have undergone severe breakdown and deterioration.
Neglecting your oral health and not seeking professional help from qualified professionals, such as the family dentists at Rio Rancho Smiles in Rio Rancho, NM, can result in unnecessary discomfort and high-cost procedures.
Cavities, gaps, and pain in the teeth that have been ignored for a long time usually necessitate restorative dentistry to improve oral health. Below are the various types of restorative dentistry treatment options.
Teeth Fillings
Fillings are used to close up cracks, chips, and cavities left within the teeth. The damaged or decayed part is scraped off and the tooth cleaned to provide a clean base.
Composite material is used to build up the affected tooth so that it can regain its function. The material has the same color as a normal tooth; hence it looks natural.
Crowns
Crowns are objects that are placed on the teeth, like a lid. They are used to repair cracked or damaged teeth, thereby allowing the teeth to function normally.
The affected tooth is reduced and filed down so that the crown sits evenly with the other teeth. It restores the structure, appearance, and function of the teeth to their optimal state.
Bridges
Bridges are used to replace missing teeth. This appliance is used when a small number of teeth are missing.
The bridge includes false teeth, which sit on the space left by the removed teeth. It is usually held in place by crowns placed on the teeth next to the gap. It can also be held down with the use of dental implants.
Dental Implants
If a tooth has undergone severe degradation due to infection, it might need to be extracted from the root.
Trauma can also cause a tooth to be knocked out. The space left can be filled with dental implants, which have an artificial root made of materials such as titanium. After the root has been installed, a crown that looks like the natural tooth is fixed on top of it.
Root Canal
The tooth comprises the enamel, which is the more rigid outer shell, and the inner softer part called the pulp.
The enamel protects the softer layer from damage. However, when the enamel gets worn down due to bacteria, the softer pulp becomes infected.
This causes intense pain and the inability to chew properly. A root canal treatment involves removing the infected part of the tooth and flushing the infection away. The tooth is then filled up and cured.
Dentures
Dentures are appliances fitted into the mouth when the existing teeth are not strong or healthy enough to support optimal function.
You could get a full denture or a partial denture, depending on the state of your teeth. Some dentures are secured to the gum with suction or adhesives; hence they can be removed. The more permanent dentures are held down by implants that are embedded into the jaw.
Extractions
When a tooth cannot be treated or repaired, the whole tooth is removed from the jaw, including the root. The gap that is left can then be filled by procedures such as implants, dentures, or bridges.
Why Do You Need Restorative Dentistry?
Restorative dentistry has a lot of physical, functional, and psychological benefits, some of which are.
It Protects the Jawbone
The prolonged absence of teeth can cause gradual degradation of the jawbones, thereby rendering it unrepairable. Restorative dentistry ensures that the gum and jawbone remain healthy.
It Allows for Proper Chewing
Missing, crooked, or chipped teeth can hinder chewing due to the uneven surface. Discomfort caused by cavities and gum disease can also prevent you from enjoying your favorite foods. With procedures such as crowning and filling, the teeth can function correctly.
It Prevents Complications
Early treatment of oral conditions prevents complications that usually require invasive and extensive treatment.
It Restores the Smile
A great smile involves a complete set of straight, white teeth. Restorative procedures fill up the gaps in the gum, thereby improving your appearance.
