Restorative Dentistry

Defined

What is Restorative Dentistry?

Restorative dentistry focuses on repairing or replacing damaged or missing teeth. These procedures help improve oral health and function. Common dental restorations include crowns, bridges and implants. You may need restorative dentistry if you have: cavities, tooth decay, damaged teeth, broken teeth, missing teeth. Restorative dentistry focuses on improving oral health and function. Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of your smile.

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Our Dental Services

Types of Preventative Dentistry

Fillings

A filling is used to treat a small hole, or cavity, in a tooth. To repair a cavity, a dentist removes the decayed tooth tissue and then fills the space with a filling material.

Crowns

Dental crowns are permanent caps placed on weak or damaged teeth to protect and cover a tooth. They can be made of materials like metal, ceramic or porcelain.

Bridgework

A dental bridge can help if you have a missing tooth or teeth. A bridge fills in the gap and helps restore your bite, smile and oral health.

Implants

Dental implants are metal screws that hold dental crowns, bridges or dentures in place. They’re a dental tool for replacing missing teeth.

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FAQ

General Questions

We strive to provide clear, accurate, and helpful information to build trust and improve your patient experience.

Where can I find what my insurance covers?

We understand and appreciate the importance of dental insurance. Our front office will assist you in determining your coverage and benefits. When contacting our office it is helpful to have your dental (not medical) carrier’s name, policy number and group number. We will help you prepare your insurance forms to assist in obtaining your benefits.

An appointment to get a tooth filling typically involves the following steps:

Consultation and examination: The dentist will first discuss the filling with you and examine your tooth to determine the extent of the decay and the best type of filling material to use.
Numbing the tooth: If the filling will be placed in a tooth that is sensitive or causes pain, the dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic. This will help to ensure that you are comfortable during the procedure.
Preparing the tooth: The dentist will then remove the decayed or damaged tissue from the tooth using a dental drill or other instruments. The area will be cleaned and prepared to receive the filling.
Placing the filling: The dentist will then place the filling material into the prepared space, shaping and smoothing it to fit the tooth. The filling will be hardened using a special light or other curing method.
Finishing the filling: The dentist will then check the bite and make any necessary adjustments to the filling. They will also provide instructions on how to care for the filling and the surrounding teeth.

The entire process typically takes 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the complexity of the filling and the number of teeth being treated.

An appointment to get a crown typically involves the following steps:

Consultation and examination: The dentist will first discuss the crown with you and examine your tooth to determine if a crown is the best treatment option. They will also take X-rays or other imaging to get a better view of the tooth and its roots.
Numbing the tooth: If the crown will be placed in a tooth that is sensitive or causes pain, the dentist will numb the area with a local anesthetic. This will help to ensure that you are comfortable during the procedure.
Preparing the tooth: The dentist will then remove any decay or damaged tissue from the tooth and shape the remaining tooth to make room for the crown. They may also take an impression of the tooth to create a custom-fit crown.
Placing a temporary crown: If the permanent crown will be made at a dental laboratory, the dentist will place a temporary crown over the prepared tooth to protect it until the permanent crown is ready.
Placing the permanent crown: Once the permanent crown is ready, the dentist will remove the temporary crown and place the permanent crown over the prepared tooth. They will adjust the fit and bite, and then cement the crown in place.

The entire process typically takes two or three visits to the dentist, spread out over a few weeks. The first visit is for preparation and placement of the temporary crown, the second visit is for placement of the permanent crown, and the third visit is a follow-up to check the fit and function of the crown.

5 Ways Restorative Dentistry Helps Patients

Restoring the function, health, and appearance of your teeth

Replace Missing Teeth

Restorative dentistry can help to replace missing teeth, whether they have been lost due to tooth decay, trauma, or gum disease. Options for replacing missing teeth include bridges, implants, and dentures.

Repair Damaged Teeth

Restorative dentistry can help to repair teeth that are damaged, decayed, or weakened. This can include treatments such as fillings, crowns, and inlays/onlays.

Improve
Appearance

Restorative dentistry can help to improve the appearance of the teeth, making them straighter, whiter, and more attractive. This can be accomplished through treatments such as veneers, bonding, and teeth whitening.

Restore
Function

Restorative dentistry can help to restore the function of the teeth, allowing patients to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. This can be achieved through treatments such as crowns, bridges, and implants.

Prevent Further Damage

By restoring damaged teeth, restorative dentistry can help to prevent further damage and the need for more extensive treatment in the future. This can save patients time, money, and discomfort.