Almost everyone will experience tooth decay at some point in his or her life. Swift detection and correction of tooth decay can minimize the significant expenses and inconveniences associated with more serious problems caused by tooth decay. Restorative dentistry treats all phases of tooth decay, from simple cavity fillings to entire tooth replacements.
Dental Crowns
When should I consider getting a dental crown?
You should consider a dental crown if you have a tooth that is chipped, cracked, badly decayed, or otherwise weakened.
What are dental crowns?
Dental crowns maintain the aesthetic appearance of teeth by covering the entire visible surface of the tooth, while adding significant reinforcement and protection to the tooth. After removing all areas of decay, your dentist will take an impression of the tooth to be crowned and send it to a dental laboratory to create the crown. Crowns can be made of composite resin, porcelain or gold. Composite Resin and porcelain crowns are extremely natural looking; virtually indistinguishable from other teeth, making them an ideal choice for visible teeth. Gold crowns pose no risk of chipping, and therefore are useful when crowning back teeth.
What are the alternatives to dental crowns?
Teeth that are badly decayed may require extraction, leaving bridges or implants as viable alternative treatments.
Dental Bridges
When should I consider a fixed bridge?
You should consider a fixed bridge if you experience difficulty chewing and speaking, dental shifts, or have an undesirable sunken facial appearance due to missing a tooth or several teeth. In addition, missing teeth can eventually lead to jaw and joint problems that are costly to treat.
What are fixed bridges?
Fixed bridges can improve chewing and aesthetic appearance, restoring the smile with a more permanent solution than dentures. Bridges replace missing teeth with artificial teeth. Your dentist will take a mold of the gap where a tooth is missing, and then send it to a laboratory to prepare a customized bridge. Before inserting the bridge, the surrounding teeth are prepared. The bridge is set into place and the artificial tooth is securely cemented to the adjacent teeth, restoring the attractive natural appearance and functionality of the tooth that was lost. If a resin-bonded bridge is chosen, the artificial tooth is secured by means of a metal appliance that attaches to the backs of adjacent teeth.
Is there an alternative to fixed bridges?
Dental implants are permanent, stable alternatives to bridges that do not rely upon surrounding teeth for support.
Tooth Fillings
Why should I get a tooth filling?
You should get a tooth filling when tooth decay has led to the development of a cavity, or small hole, in the tooth.
What is a tooth filling?
Your dentist will remove all areas of decay, and replace with a filling made of composite resin. Composite resin fillings have surged in popularity because their appearance perfectly matches the natural appearance of teeth.
What are the alternatives to tooth fillings?
In cases of more extensive decay, porcelain inlays and onlays are an advisable alternative.
Dentures & Partials
Dentures and partials are dental prosthetics used to replace missing teeth and restore the appearance and function of your smile. Whether you are missing a few teeth or all of your teeth, dentures and partial dentures can help you regain confidence in your smile and improve your ability to eat, speak, and enjoy life to the fullest.
Types of Dentures & Partials:
- Conventional Full Dentures: These are made after all teeth have been removed and the gums have healed, usually taking a few months.
- Implant-Supported Dentures/Partials: These dentures are supported by dental implants, which are surgically placed into the jawbone. Implant-supported dentures provide a more secure fit and prevent bone loss over time.
- Flexible Partial Dentures: Made of a more flexible material, these partials are comfortable and lightweight. They are often more aesthetically pleasing and less noticeable than traditional metal partials.
Who is a Good Candidate for Dentures & Partials?
- Candidates for Complete Dentures: Individuals who have lost all of their teeth due to age, decay, injury, or illness may benefit from full dentures. Dentures can restore both function and appearance for people missing an entire set of teeth.
- Candidates for Partial Dentures: People with one or more missing teeth but still have healthy natural teeth can benefit from partial dentures. These prosthetics fill in the gaps and help maintain the alignment of the remaining teeth.
Caring for Dentures & Partials:
- Daily Cleaning: Brush dentures or partials daily with a soft-bristle brush and non-abrasive toothpaste or denture cleaner. Avoid using regular toothpaste, as it can scratch the surface.
- Rinse After Eating: Remove dentures or partials after eating and rinse them thoroughly to remove food particles.
- Proper Storage: When not in use, store dentures or partials in water or a denture-cleaning solution to keep them from drying out or losing their shape.
- Regular Check-ups: Visit your dentist regularly to ensure that your dentures or partials are in good condition and fit properly. Your dentist will monitor any changes in your oral health and make adjustments as necessary.