General dentistry, the most common form of dentistry, is primarily concerned with providing treatments which prevent oral complications. When you get your bi-annual teeth cleaning and checkup, or when you have a cavity filled, those are considered general dentistry procedures. While general dentistry is important, sometimes complications occur regardless, causing tooth decay, damage, and even tooth loss. When these situations happen, restorative dentistry is needed.
What is Restorative Dentistry?
Restorative dentistry represents a number of dental procedures which restore damaged smiles by making them clean, functional, and beautiful once more. Gum disease and tooth decay are the most prominent factors when it comes to damaging a smile, but there are several other ways that smiles can become damaged. Situations that can cause tooth trauma, like chipping, as well as complications such as TMJ, can all damage teeth to the point of needing intervention.
Restorative Options
The best restorative option usually depends on the cause of the damage. Tooth decay and gum disease are the most common reasons patients seek restorative dentistry. Oral bacteria cause both these problems. Bacteria cling to teeth and slowly wear down enamel by producing an acidic by-product. Filling a cavity falls under general dentistry, but when a cavity becomes deep enough to penetrate the inner chambers of the tooth called the pulp chamber, it compromises the structure of the tooth. Weak teeth are vulnerable to cracking. At this point, a root canal and restorative dentistry can protect a tooth and make it functional once again.
How Can Restorative Dentistry Replace Missing Teeth?
Losing teeth can be a painful and embarrassing experience, but modern replacement options can help. In the past, traditional dentures offered few benefits. Dental implants are incredibly effective at replacing missing teeth. They are much like our natural teeth. Comprised of a titanium dental implant and ceramic crown, dental implants work because of a process known as osseointegration. After an implant is inserted into the jaw bone and allowed to heal, the titanium and bone matter fuse together. The implant connects to your jaw, similar to a tooth root. Because this connection is so secure, you can bite and chew normally. And no special cleaning procedures are needed, simply brushing, flossing, and attending regularly scheduled dentist appointments will do. After the implant has become secure, it is attached to a ceramic crown which is virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth.
Is Restorative Dentistry Right for Me?
Restorative dentistry is meant to return beauty and functionality to your smile. If your teeth have become damaged due to trauma, gum disease, or tooth decay, then a restorative dentist can help. The best way to determine whether a procedure like dental implants is right for you, is to schedule a consultation with your local dentist.
If your teeth have been damaged and you are looking for quality restorative dentistry in Scripps Ranch, look no further. Please call today for an appointment with restorative dentist Dr. Ramin Goshtasbi at Oasis Dental Arts.