What is restorative dentistry?
Restorative dentistry uses custom oral appliances to replace missing or damaged teeth. In addition to improving your oral health, it can return your mouth to a functional and aesthetically pleasing state.
What are the types of restorative dentistry?
Restorative dentistry treatments fall into one of two categories:
Direct restorations
Direct restorations only take a single visit. They’re applied instantly to prevent further damage to your tooth enamel. Two of the most common types of direct restorations include dental fillings and dental bonding.
Indirect restorations
Indirect restorations use custom-crafted dental prosthetics like crowns, bridges, or dentures to replace missing or damaged teeth. They require two or more appointments because the restorations are made in a dental laboratory.
What are some of the most common dental restorations?
The team at Desert Dentist offers a variety of dental restorations, including:
Crowns
Crowns are tooth-shaped caps that cover and protect a damaged molar or premolar. Once bonded in place, a crown restores a tooth to its near-original condition, shape, and size. Crowns look and function like your natural teeth. If you practice good oral hygiene, they can last 12-15 years.
Bridges
If you’re missing a single tooth or several teeth in a row, the team might recommend a dental bridge. A dental bridge is an oral prosthetic that closes a gap in your smile. There are different types of bridges but all include artificial teeth and a supportive framework.
Implants
Dental implants are titanium posts that integrate with your jaw. They provide a strong, durable foundation for dental restorations like crowns, bridges, or implant-supported dentures. Dental implants look and feel like you’re natural teeth. With good oral hygiene and routine checkups, they typically last for decades.
Dentures
If you’re missing some or all of your teeth, the team might recommend dentures. Dentures are made of materials like acrylic, plastic, or nylon. They feature pink gums, artificial teeth, and metal clasps or a base plate. Dentures rest on top of your gums, allowing you to bite and chew.
What type of restorative dentistry is best for me?
To determine the type of restorative dentistry that will most benefit you, the team at Desert Dentist conducts an oral exam, reviews your dental health history, and asks about your goals for treatment. After taking a series of oral X-rays, they develop a custom care plan that aligns with your budget and needs.
Request a restorative dentistry consultation at Desert Dentist. Book an appointment with the online scheduling tool or call the nearest office today.
