People worldwide recognize a smile as a friendly gesture. When a person is introduced to someone new, this individual’s smile is often the first thing they notice. However, some people aren’t happy with their smiles and refuse to share them with others. Restorative dentistry can give them a smile they love and want to show off.
Missing and discolored teeth are two reasons a person might choose not to smile. Restorative dentistry corrects these problems and more. Dentists use CEREC crowns, fillings, and other procedures to correct the issues the patient is experiencing. What is the goal of restorative dentistry, and what are some procedures a dentist might recommend?
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The Goal of Restorative Dentistry
Restorative dentistry aims to repair and restore damaged teeth to improve their function and appearance. The treatments address dental issues to improve the patient’s health. Cosmetic dentistry focuses on the smile’s aesthetic, while restorative dentistry focuses on the function, often enhancing the aesthetics simultaneously.
Common Restorative Dentistry Procedures
Fillings remain the most common restorative dentistry procedure. They repair cavities and restore damaged teeth. The dentist may use amalgam, composite resin, or another material for this filling.
When the tooth is significantly damaged, a filling might not be enough to restore it to full function. A dental crown or cap is beneficial in this situation. The dentist removes the damage and places this crown over the remaining tooth to protect it while restoring its size, strength, and appearance. Porcelain, ceramic, and metal are common materials used for crowns, and the dentist customizes the crown to blend in with the other teeth.
A root canal may be needed before the dentist places the crown. This procedure addressed infected or inflamed tooth pulp. The dentist removes this pulp, cleans the tooth’s interior, and seals it before placing the crown.
Bridges, dentures, and dental implants replace missing or falling teeth in the mouth. Bridges replace one or more teeth, while dentures can replace most or all teeth in the upper or lower jaw. However, dentists today recommend dental implants whenever possible, as the implant replaces the natural tooth root, preventing the loss of the jawbone that comes with a missing tooth.
The Benefits of Restorative Dentistry
Restorative dentistry has several benefits. When dental issues are resolved, a person’s oral health improves. Untreated issues could lead to serious oral health issues and may impact the person’s overall health. Restoring damaged teeth reduces the risk of this happening while improving the person’s oral hygiene.
Restorative dental procedures restore the natural function of the teeth. The person can eat, speak, and chew properly again when this work is done. They will also save money over time, as prompt action reduces the need for more extensive treatments with a higher price tag.
The most significant benefit people see when their smile is restored is a boost in their confidence. They will no longer be self-conscious about their teeth and can interact socially with others without embarrassment. No price can be put on this.
Visit a dentist today to learn more about these restorative dentistry procedures and their benefits. The dentist can examine the teeth and gums to develop a treatment plan that meets the patient’s needs while resolving the problems they are experiencing. Upon completing this work, the individual will have a healthy mouth that functions properly and a beautiful smile they love.
