What is Restorative Dentistry?

Any dental procedure that repairs or replaces a tooth is referred to as restorative dentistry. Cavity fillings, root canals, and even dental implants are all examples of restorative procedures. Restorative dentistry can have two goals: restoring the function of the teeth and restoring the appearance of the teeth. It’s either one or the other in some cases, and it’s both in others. Dental restorations are used to treat a variety of issues. These issues include decay, deterioration (weakening) of a previously placed restoration or fracture of your toot. These issues can be resolved with dental restorations.

What problems are treated with dental restorations?

The procedures that precede a dental restoration vary depending on the type of restoration. Brush and floss your teeth before any procedure to keep them as clean as possible. During a routine cleaning, your dentist will detect cavities and make an appointment to place fillings. During a preliminary visit for dentures, they will measure your mouth and create models of your jaw.

What are the benefits of restorative dentistry procedures?

• Keeping empty spaces in the mouth filled helps keep teeth aligned.
• Replacing teeth makes it easier to keep up with good oral hygiene habits and avoid plaque build-up and the problems it can cause.
• Missing teeth can have a negative impact on your health, appearance, and self-confidence.

Procedures In Restorative Dentistry

Restorative dentistry encompasses a wide range of dental procedures, including:

Cavity filling
This is the most common restorative dental procedure. When bacteria burrow into the enamel (the hard outer layer) of your tooth and create a hole (known as a cavity), it needs to be filled to protect the soft pulp inside. ). The dentist will remove the damaged part of the tooth and fill the hole with composite material that matches the color of your tooth during a cavity filling procedure. This filling will keep the bacteria from infecting the tooth any longer.

Root Canal
A root canal procedure may be required when a cavity gets deep enough into a tooth such that it exposes the soft pulp inside. Following a tooth injury, a root canal may be required. The inside of the tooth is usually infected, necessitating a root canal. The dentist will clean out all of the soft pulp from inside the tooth and the root canal, rinse out the infection, and fill the inside of the tooth with composite material similar to that used in cavity fillings during a root canal procedure. The tooth is saved once the inside is filled because it can no longer become infected.

Crown
A crown can be used to strengthen a tooth that has been damaged in some way, such as by severe decay or a crack or break (otherwise known as a cap). The top of the tooth is shaved down, and a crown is placed over it in a crown placement procedure. The crown has the same appearance and function as your natural tooth, and the natural root is preserved.

Dental Implant
A dental implant can be used to replace a missing tooth or a tooth that needs to be extracted due to severe decay or damage. A dental implant is a tooth replacement that includes both the crown and the root. The implant root is made of titanium, a biocompatible metal that forms a strong bond with the jaw bone. A crown is attached to the top of the root, which is surgically implanted in the jaw. The entire implant appears and functions exactly like a natural tooth, making it the best tooth-replacement option. Bridges and dentures can be held in place with the help of dental implants.

Bridge
A dental bridge is a prosthetic tooth that is held in place by two crowns. A bridge can sometimes be made up of several teeth in a row. Crowns or dental implants are used to hold the bridge in place. Crowns are placed over the existing teeth on either side of the bridge. The bridge rests on top of the gums and is devoid of a root.

Dentures
Dentures are a replacement option if you don’t have enough healthy teeth in your mouth to function properly. Dentures are typically made up of an entire arch of teeth. Suction or adhesives can be used to secure removable dentures to the gums. Implant-supported dentures (also known as snap-on dentures) are held in the jaw by a few dental implants.

Benefits Of Restorative Dentistry

Restorative dental procedures have numerous advantages, which is why they are among the most popular procedures performed by dentists.

Restore the teeth functionality
The most significant advantage of restorative procedures is that your teeth’ functionality is restored. Because your teeth are in good shape, you can eat and speak with relative ease.

Get rid of the discomfort
If you have a deep cavity or an infected tooth that requires a root canal, you have most likely experienced excruciating pain. By correcting the problem or removing the infection, restorative procedures alleviate pain.

Enhance your appearance
Restorative procedures can improve the appearance of your teeth, allowing you to smile with confidence.

Prevent future dental problems
Correcting a dental problem as soon as it is discovered can prevent it from worsening or causing additional dental problems. A cavity should be filled as soon as your dentist notices it to avoid the need for a root canal. If a cavity is left untreated for too long, it can lead to the extraction and replacement of a tooth that can no longer be saved.

Maintain the density of the jaw bone
The bone density in your jaw is preserved when you replace a missing tooth with an implant. When a tooth is lost, the part of the jaw that once held it in place begins to deteriorate and dissolve. After that, a bone graft procedure will be required to replace it with an implant. To avoid bone loss, it is best to replace a missing or unviable tooth as soon as possible.

Hints on taking care of your restorative dentistry work

• Brush your teeth twice a day with a soft toothbrush.
• Electric toothbrushes can assist in the removal of plaque from your teeth as well as restorative work.
• Floss every day around your teeth, dental implants, crowns, and bridges.
• Avoid chewing on hard or sticky foods. These have the potential to harm your implant, bridge, or crown.
• To help fight plaque bacteria around restorative work, use an antibacterial mouthwash.

What are the drawbacks of dental restorations?

After a dental restoration procedure, the most common risk is sensitivity or general discomfort. You might get an infection or have an allergic reaction to the metals used very rarely.

Dental restorations pose few dangers, but crowns, for example, can chip, loosen, or fall out (permanent crowns do not). Root canals or tooth extraction may be required if you have deep cavities or wait too long to have them filled. If you have a problem with your teeth, see your dentist right away.