(305) 857-3731In short, restorative dentistry focuses on repairing your teeth or restoring your smile. This category of dentistry offers many different options for repairing damage ranging from minor chips and cracks to major damage caused by trauma or severe decay. Restorative dentistry isn’t only about aesthetics—it can also restore functionality, prevent further damage, and even improve your speech and ability to eat. Here are six common restorative dentistry procedures:
1. Fillings
Fillings are a type of restorative dentistry used to repair damage to individual teeth caused by decay. During a filling, cavities, which are areas of damage to the outer layer of the tooth, are filled to restore strength and protect the tooth from further damage and infection. Dentists use various composite materials for the filling process which are often designed to blend in with the color of your teeth for an aesthetically pleasing look.
2. Crowns
Crowns are typically used when decay has weakened a single tooth but they can also be used to fill gaps between teeth, cover dental implants, and correct discoloration. A crown is a custom-made artificial tooth cap that fits over the existing natural tooth. Crowns are custom-made to match the shape and color of your existing teeth for an aesthetically pleasing look. Whereas in the past, getting a crown took multiple visits to the dentist, we can now use advanced imaging and fabrication technologies to create and fit crowns in just one visit.
3. Root Canal
A root canal is a dentistry procedure used when there is deep decay or infection within a tooth’s root canal system. Root canals aim to save badly damaged or infected teeth that would otherwise need removal. The process involves removing damaged tissue from inside the affected tooth and thoroughly cleaning it before filling the root with a special material. The tooth is sealed to stop any further infection from occurring.
4. Dental Implants
Dental implants are placed into the jawbone where they act as an artificial root for a missing tooth. A crown is then placed on top of this implant to create a natural-looking replacement tooth. Implants are an excellent permanent solution to address tooth loss and transform the look of your smile.
5. Bridges
A bridge is a type of restorative dentistry that fills gaps left by one or more missing teeth with artificial teeth. Traditional bridges are fixed in place, often using crowns that fit over the surrounding natural teeth or dental implants, while other bridges may be removable. The best type of bridge for you will depend on the location of your missing teeth and how many teeth need to be replaced.
6. Dentures
Dentures are removable replacements for groups of missing teeth or to replace all of your teeth. Modern dentures are far from the uncomfortable and awkward false teeth of the past. Today’s dentures are much more comfortable and effective. Dentures are custom-made to match your skin tone and fit comfortably and securely in your mouth, creating a natural look and feel.
Restorative dentistry can be truly transforming and with today’s advanced materials and technology, procedures are minimally invasive, comfortable, and highly successful. If you’re in Miami and you have any questions about any of the restorative dentistry procedures discussed above, contact us today. You can also check out our blog for more interesting dental topics.