5 Procedures Performed by a Restorative Dentist

Your restorative dentist will assess your mouth first. Recommending the right treatment will follow. Understanding these procedures can help you make informed decisions about your treatment day. Here are five procedures to consider from your restorative dentist.

1. Dental crowns

A cap or crown is a custom-fit restoration that covers the dental structure above the gumline. It shields the tooth from more damage. This restoration also brings back the tooth’s healthy appearance. A crown can be made of porcelain, but the most common material is ceramic. It seals the natural dental structure, providing effective protection.

The restorative dentist will create this custom-fit restoration by taking an impression of the tooth. This step is necessary to ensure the crown fits with the rest of the natural teeth. Grinding the enamel will allow the cap to fit over the treated tooth. The dentist will fix the cap over the tooth using dental cement. The patient can then enjoy more bite strength with a crown lasting five to 15 years with proper care and maintenance.

2. Dental fillings

Research shows that a filling treatment is the most common restoration among children and adults. A mild to moderate cavity will need a filling made of tooth-colored composite resin. Most patients prefer this type of dental filling to metal ones. The dentist will remove the decayed areas and sanitize them. Applying the filling will follow. Proper care and maintenance can make this restoration last at least 10-15 years.

3. Dental implants

A dental implant is the gold standard of dental restorations. It is the most tooth-like dental replacement one can get. This artificial structure functions, looks, and feels like a natural tooth. Getting a dental implant involves invasive surgery and a long healing period. Some patients may have an even longer treatment because of bone grafting surgery.

The dentist can use dental implants to replace up to two teeth. Replacing more teeth will mean combining the implants with dentures and bridges. The patient can then receive implant-retained bridges or implant-supported dentures. These are durable and stable dental replacements that can last 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance and care.

A patient can enjoy strength and stability with dental implants. Removable dental replacements often cause embarrassment and low self-esteem. Implants let patients enjoy normal dental function without worry. They also help bring back the patient’s youthful appearance by preventing jawbone loss. Proper jawbone support maintains the facial structures.

4. Fixed bridges

A restorative dentist can also recommend a fixed bridge if the patient qualifies. This restoration needs healthy teeth on both sides of the dental gap. The dentist will place a crown over these abutment teeth to support the pontics. The bridge of artificial crowns will fill the dental gap and complete one’s smile.

The pontics are often made of tooth-colored ceramic resin. These restorations can replace one to three teeth. The artificial teeth will sit on the gumline. Designing and measuring a dental bridge is considered an art by many dentists. A bridge can last for at least 10-15 years with proper maintenance and care.

5. Dentures

These are restorations that can replace an entire dental arch. A restorative dentist recommends dentures for patients who need an economical and fast dental replacement. Dentures can restore the function and look of one’s mouth right away. Patients who miss one to three teeth can also get these restorations. Dentures are removable and temporary dental replacements. Proper care and maintenance can make dentures last for five to 10 years.