If you’re like most people, you probably cringe at getting a tooth filled. But to keep our teeth healthy and protect them from decay, we must schedule regular dental check-ups. This is where restorative dentistry comes in. Restorative dentistry is one of the three main branches of dental and preventive and surgical care.
In this article, we’ll look at restorative dentistry and how it can help you if you have any problems with your teeth.
What Is Restorative Dentistry?
Restorative dentistry is the branch that helps people repair damage to their teeth so they can keep their smile for as long as possible. The most common reason for needing restorative dentistry is decay resulting from tooth decay. However, restorative treatments also repair minor holes and cracks in your teeth, completely rebuild a tooth with crown restorations, and enhance your smile with cosmetic, restorative treatments such as veneers and Invisalign.
Types of Restorative Dentistry
There are a variety of different types of restorative dentistry, including:
- Crowns. Covers a dental pulp space and is used to restore a portion of the tooth that has been damaged beyond repair.
- Fillings. Fillings repair small cavities, fill large chips, and even change tooth color through the composite resin.
- Bridges. Used to replace teeth that are damaged beyond repair or that are missing due to a dental implant failure.
- Prosthodontics. This branch of dentistry deals with making prosthetic appliances to replace missing teeth or to help people with jaw joint problems.
- Dental Implants. This particular type of crown is placed over a dental implant to protect it and make it last longer.
Common Restorative Treatments
There are a number of different types of restorative treatments that are commonly done, including:
- Root Canal Treatments. This procedure is recommended for any tooth that has had a large amount of decay, as it is harmful to the health of the root canal system.
- Bridge Work. Used to replace teeth that are damaged beyond repair or that are missing due to a dental implant failure.
- Dental Implants. A dental implant is a titanium screw that is attached to the bone and can be used to support several restorative procedures.
- Veneers. Used to change the color and shape of a portion of your tooth, for example, to change a crooked smile.
- Invisalign. Clear aligners are used to help with the treatment of Invisalign.
How Does Restorative Dentistry Work?
When you go to the dentist for a regular check-up, your dentist will first look at your teeth and examine your gum tissue to see if there are any signs of decay or other problems. Your dentist will also take x-rays and examine your bite and jaw motion to check for any problems related to your bite or jaw joint. When they find any issues, they’ll determine the treatment best for you and your situation. Restorative dentistry treatment differs from general dentistry in that it’s focused on treating the source of the problem, not just cleaning your teeth. In addition, many restorative treatments are more complex and require more time than regular cleaning. Examples of these more complex restorative treatments include dental implants, a dental crown, a dental bridge, and dental implants.
Is It Worth It?
If you have any signs of tooth decay, you need to schedule an appointment with your dentist as soon as possible. If you catch it early enough, you can prevent it from developing into a much more serious problem. Unfortunately, most people don’t catch any signs of decay until it’s too late, which has already caused damage. So as soon as you notice a problem, you need to see your dentist as quickly as possible. If you have questions about your dental health, schedule an appointment with your dentist. They can help you prevent serious problems affecting your teeth and your health.
Where to Find More Information
There are many ways to learn more about restorative dentistry, including reading dentistry books, talking to your dentist, or visiting community health and wellness centers. You can also find helpful information on your local hospital’s website.
Conclusion
We hope you now have a better idea of what restorative dentistry is and what it could help you. If you have problems with your teeth, they can be a huge problem and cause a lot of pain. With restorative dentistry, your dentist will help you get rid of the problem and fix it, providing you with a new tooth or teeth that are stronger and healthier than before. In the end, the best thing you can do for your teeth is to schedule regular check-ups with your dentist. These articles can help you better understand restorative dentistry and what it could do for you.