Restorative dentistry is the branch of dentistry that focuses on restoring parts of the smile that have been damaged. These procedures are often needed after one or more teeth are lost, or tooth decay has caused teeth to become damaged. At Kirby Smiles, restorative treatments can repair teeth enough to help them function or rebuild teeth completely.
When is Restorative Dentistry Necessary?
Restorative dentistry is a broad category of treatments meant to repair teeth damage. This damage may range from minor decay or discoloration to more severe chips and cracks. In some cases, tooth damage is so consequential that patients may need to consider full coverage dental crowns, inlays, or onlays.
Restorative dentistry is also necessary when teeth have been worn down due to teeth grinding and clenching. These habits can create extreme wear on the tooth enamel and cause more significant damage to the underlying tooth structure.
Types of Restorative Dentistry
Dental Bonding
Using a tooth-colored composite resin material, this restorative treatment is used to fix minor cosmetic dental issues, including chipped teeth, gaps between teeth, or minor discoloration. The resin material is applied directly to the teeth, molded, shaped, and polished to achieve a natural look.
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is a series of teeth that are connected. A bridge is used to replace one or two missing adjacent teeth. The teeth on either side of the gap are prepared for crowns placed over the teeth to hold the bridge in place. The bridge restores the ability to chew and speak and restores a smile.
Dental Crowns
A crown is a cap placed over a tooth to restore its shape and size after decay or injury. Porcelain crowns are matched to the surrounding teeth in color and appearance.
Dental Implants
Dental implants are surgically placed under the gums to restore missing teeth. Once the implants are placed, they fuse with the jawbone, becoming permanent. An abutment is attached to the implant, and a crown is placed over the abutment to replace the missing tooth.
The Benefits of Restorative Dentistry
Restorative dentistry includes a variety of dental procedures that restore, revamp, and improve the appearance of your smile. Methods such as dental veneers, dental implants, and dental crowns all fall under the broad category of restorative dentistry, which all aim to improve your oral health and the appearance of your teeth.
The benefits of restorative dentistry include treating cavities and gum disease, which make your smile healthier and more attractive. Restorative dentistry can also repair broken or fractured teeth, making them stronger.
To learn more about the advantages of restorative dentistry, visit Kirby Smiles at 3695 Kirby Dr. Suite 129, Pearland, TX 77584, or call 281-941-5488.