Restorative dentistry focuses on the repair and replacement of missing or damaged teeth. For example, restorative dentists remove and repair dental cavities and administer treatment and rehabilitation for other dental issues. They cater to patients from young to old, although most patients who need repair and replacement are adults.
Restorative dentistry has two main goals – the restoration of the teeth so they can function well and the restoration of the appearance of the teeth.
Restorative Dentistry vs. Cosmetic Dentistry
There are similarities between restorative and cosmetic dentistry. However, restorative dentistry is more focused on the treatment due to a disease. Despite the result showing an improvement in the physical appearance of the mouth, teeth, and gums, it is a restorative procedure.
On the other hand, cosmetic dentistry focuses on the physical aspect of how the mouth, teeth, and smile look like and improves a person’s smile and positive self-image.
Benefits of Restorative Dentistry
Restorative dental procedures are the most common procedures performed by dentists. These procedures help restore the function of the teeth so that we can eat and talk well. The procedures also help alleviate dental pain from cavities, tooth infections, etc., and prevent further dental problems.
Treatments and Procedures under Restorative Dentistry
Here are the standard treatments and procedures under restorative dentistry:
- Dental Fillings
Dental Fillings are the most common restorative procedure. It is the repair of the structure of a damaged tooth due to cavities. In this procedure, the damaged part of the tooth will be removed and then filled with a composite material. The composite material prevents bacteria from further damaging the tooth.
- Root Canals
When cavities are deep enough to expose the inside of the tooth, a restorative dentist may likely perform a root canal procedure. A root canal procedure cleans out decay from the root of the affected tooth, and the restorative dentist fills the inside of the tooth with a composite material. Once filled, the tooth is no longer infected, and the composite material prevents further damage.
- Dentures
Dentures are a replacement option for when a tooth is badly damaged, and restoration is not an option, or when the gum tissue is damaged. In addition, when multiple teeth are badly damaged or missing, dentures are a popular option. Here are the five kinds of dentures:
- Fixed partial dentures
- Complete dentures
- Immediate dentures
- Removable partial dentures
- Implant-retained dentures
- Dental Crowns
A dental crown is a cap placed over the tooth and strengthens the tooth’s structure. A dentist places the dental crown over a damaged, decayed, or cracked tooth to restore its natural appearance.
- Dental Implants
When a tooth is severely damaged and extracted, implant dentistry is a solution that can replace the tooth. In this procedure, the dentist places an artificial tooth root within the jawbone, which looks like a screw, to bond it to the existing bone. A crown is then attached to the top as a replacement for the tooth. Thus, the implant looks and functions like a natural tooth. Due to this, the vast majority of the population considers dental implants the best tooth-replacement procedure.
- Bridges
Restorative dentists recommend dental bridges for the restoration of three or more damaged teeth. Several crowns are merged and then bonded to healthy teeth on either side of the gap to bridge them all together.
- Dental Bonding
Dental Bonding is a treatment that repairs chipped or cracked teeth, fills cavities, and covers discolored teeth. Dentists will bond composite materials to the existing tooth. In this procedure, the dentist removes very little or even none of the original tooth.
These are some of the procedures under restorative dentistry. It is best to take care of your teeth and gums to prevent any pain and discomfort. Brush your teeth every after meals, floss, and visit a dentist twice a year.
