Common Dental Procedures: Understanding Restorative Dentistry

From diagnosing and treating oral health issues to repairing or replacing teeth and other tissues in the mouth, restorative dentistry is an important branch of dental care. It's necessary for various reasons, such as tooth decay, damage, or loss. To make sure you get the highest quality treatment at your next visit with a dentist, it pays to become familiar with some of the most common restorative dental procedures available today.

Fillings

One of the most common restorative dental procedures is the placement of dental fillings. Fillings are used to repair teeth that have been damaged by decay or trauma. During the procedure, the dentist removes the decayed or damaged portion of the tooth and fills the cavity with a tooth-colored material, such as composite resin. This helps to prevent further damage and decay and restores the tooth's strength and function.

Crowns

Crowns are used to restore severely damaged or weakened teeth that cannot be repaired with fillings. Crowns are tooth-shaped caps that are placed over the entire tooth to protect and strengthen it. They can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, or metal, depending on the patient's needs and preferences.

Bridges

Bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth. They consist of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) that are anchored to adjacent teeth with dental crowns. Bridges can improve the appearance of your smile, restore your ability to chew and speak properly and prevent the remaining teeth from shifting out of position.

Implants

Dental implants are used to replace one or more missing teeth. They are a popular and effective alternative to bridges or dentures. Implants are surgically placed into the jawbone and fuse with the bone over time to create a stable foundation for a replacement tooth or bridge.

Dentures

Dentures are removable oral appliances that are used to replace multiple missing teeth. They are typically made of acrylic resin and can be either complete (replacing all teeth) or partial (replacing only a few missing teeth). Dentures can restore your ability to eat, speak, and smile with confidence.

Root Canals

To maintain the health of your teeth, a root canal procedure is essential when infected or inflamed dental pulp (the soft tissue located inside) needs to be treated. During this process, the dentist will remove any damaged or contaminated tissues while also disinfecting and sealing up the tooth with a special filling material. Thanks to Root Canals, you can save an otherwise doomed tooth from extraction and keep it safe from further damage.

Restorative dental procedures are essential for maintaining good oral health and restoring the function and appearance of your teeth. If you think you may need restorative dental work, it is important to schedule an appointment with a qualified dentist who can evaluate your oral health and recommend the best treatment options for your individual needs.

Here at South Temple Dental, we offer crowns and sealants to our patients who need them. Click here to learn more about these treatment options today!