Restorative Dentistry
Restorative dentistry is a branch of dentistry focused on diagnosing and treating oral health problems related to damaged, decayed, or missing teeth and supporting structures. The primary goal of restorative dentistry is to restore the function, aesthetics, and health of the mouth, enabling patients to eat, speak, and smile comfortably.
Restorative dentistry encompasses a range of treatments and procedures, including:
- Cavity Filling
This involves removing decayed tooth material and filling the cavity with a dental material such as composite resin to prevent further decay and restore the tooth’s structure.
- Root Canal
When decay or injury reaches the pulp of the tooth, causing infection or inflammation, a root canal procedure may be necessary. It involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning the root canal, and sealing it to prevent further infection.
- Crown
A crown, or cap, is used to cover and protect a damaged or weakened tooth. It restores the tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are often placed after a root canal or to support a dental bridge.
- Dental Implant
A dental implant is a titanium post surgically implanted into the jawbone to replace a missing tooth root. Once integrated with the bone, an artificial tooth (crown) is attached to the implant, providing a durable and natural-looking replacement.
- Bridge
Dental bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring artificial teeth (pontics) to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. They restore chewing function and prevent shifting of remaining teeth.
- Dentures
Dentures are removable prosthetic devices used to replace multiple missing teeth. They can be full (replacing all teeth in an arch) or partial (replacing some missing teeth while preserving remaining natural teeth).
The benefits of restorative dentistry include:
- Restoring dental function, allowing for proper chewing, speaking, and oral health maintenance.
- Alleviating pain and discomfort associated with dental issues such as cavities and infections.
- Improving the appearance of teeth, enhancing confidence and self-esteem.
- Preventing further dental problems by addressing issues promptly and effectively.
- Preserving jaw bone density and oral structure, particularly with dental implants, which stimulate bone growth and prevent bone loss.
Regular dental check-ups and good oral hygiene practices are essential for maintaining oral health and preventing the need for extensive restorative treatments. At Emerson Dental, we prioritize proactive dental care to preserve and restore our patients’ oral health effectively.