Posted by Wayne H. Mori on Feb 14 2023, 11:59 PM
A restorative dental procedure restores the structure and function of a tooth. A tooth can be damaged due to tooth decay, trauma, infection, or many other reasons. A restorative procedure fixes these problems so you can maintain a healthy, beautiful smile.
Here are some of the common restorative dentistry procedures:
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that is placed over a tooth to cover it and protect it from further damage or decay. The crown covers the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gum line and is cemented in place with dental cement. Dental crowns are used to treat a variety of dental problems, including cracks, fractures, severe wear, large fillings, root canals, and misshapen teeth. They can also be used to improve aesthetics by changing the shape and color of the tooth and improving its appearance. They are made from porcelain fused with metal or from stronger ceramic materials. These materials can be matched to the color of the patient’s natural teeth, and the crowns are made to look and feel as natural as possible.
A dental bridge is a custom restoration made of artificial teeth that replace one or more missing teeth in a row of front teeth. The bridge is cemented in place next to the natural teeth and is held firmly in place by dental crowns placed on the adjacent teeth. Bridges can be an excellent restorative solution for patients who have experienced tooth loss due to decay or injury, especially when the lost tooth is in the smile’s “social six” – the six front-most teeth that show when a patient smiles. By restoring this row of teeth, patients can regain a beautiful smile and enjoy all of the benefits of a full mouth of healthy teeth.
A filling is a restorative dentistry procedure used to fill a tooth that has been damaged by decay, cracks, or fractures. The dentist will numb the tooth, remove any diseased material, clean the area, fill the tooth with a composite resin material, and polish it to prevent future tooth decay. During a filling, patients may experience slight sensitivity due to the numbing process, but it should subside within a couple of hours after the appointment is completed.
Dental implants are an ideal treatment for missing teeth because they most closely mimic your natural teeth in appearance and functionality. They are anchored in the jaw with a post or screw, unlike dentures that sit on top of the gums. This allows them to provide a strong biting force that will not slip or cause discomfort in the way that removable appliances can.
If you would like to learn more about these dental procedures, contact our office. We look forward to seeing you! Contact us at (503) 230-8814 or visit our website to schedule an appointment.
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