Restorative Dentistry

Restorative dentistry, often referred to as restorative dental treatments, encompasses a range of procedures aimed at repairing or replacing damaged teeth and restoring optimal oral health.

Restorative Dentistry Procedures

Resin Composite Fillings

A composite material combines glass and plastic and is used to fill decayed areas of the tooth. Composite resin fillings can treat various dental issues, including cavities, chipped or cracked teeth, worn enamel, and gaps between teeth. They can restore the natural shape and function of the tooth while maintaining an aesthetically pleasing result. Composite resin fillings require less healthy tooth structure removal than amalgam fillings. The material bonds directly to the tooth surface, providing strength and support. This conservative approach helps preserve more of the natural tooth structure.

At Dream Smiles Dental, composite resin fillings are often called "tooth-colored" because they can be shaded to match the color of a patient's natural teeth. They can be used on front or back teeth and are an excellent choice for repairing broken teeth. They can last up to ten years or more when properly cared for.

Crowns and Bridges

Crowns

Crowns are commonly used to restore the shape, size, strength, and appearance of a tooth that has severely decayed, fractured, weakened, or undergone root canal treatment. At Dream Smiles Dental, they are custom-fit tooth coverings placed over teeth treated with root canal therapy that are cracked, chipped, discolored, or otherwise require extra reinforcement and protection.

A crown is designed to fit snugly over the affected tooth to protect it and restore its shape and size. It can also improve the tooth's appearance and function by restoring the ability to eat and speak properly. When patients lose a tooth, the remaining ones shift out of place, which can affect your bite and cause other problems with your oral health. A crown can prevent this and maintain your smile's appearance.

• All-Ceramic or All-Porcelain Crowns

These crowns are made entirely of ceramic material, such as zirconia or lithium disilicate. They provide excellent aesthetics, as they can closely resemble teeth' natural color, translucency, and texture. All-ceramic crowns are often preferred for front teeth, where esthetics are a priority. They may not be as strong as some other types of crowns, so they may not be recommended for teeth with heavy biting forces.

• Metal Crowns

Metal crowns are typically made of gold alloy or base metal alloys. They offer exceptional strength and durability, making them suitable for back teeth with significant chewing forces. Metal crowns are highly resistant to wear and are less likely to cause wear on opposing teeth. However, their metallic color makes them less aesthetically appealing, so they are usually used on non-visible areas of the mouth.

Bridges

A dental bridge is a non-removable restoration that replaces one or more missing teeth. At Dream Smiles Dental, they "bridge" the gap created by missing teeth, restoring the appearance and function of your smile. Patients should care for their bridges just as they cared for their teeth before receiving them. Brushing and flossing daily is critical to prevent decay from forming around the bridge and underneath its crown. Patients should also schedule regular checkups with their dentist for assessment to ensure the health of the teeth and gums.

• Traditional Bridge

A traditional bridge is a restorative dentistry treatment designed to close the gap a missing tooth or teeth leaves. The bridge consists of two or more dental crowns attached to an artificial tooth called a pontic. The crowns fit over adjacent healthy teeth, and the pontic fills in the gap to make your smile complete again. If you're worried about your gaps affecting the appearance of your smile, a traditional bridge can help restore your confidence.

• Implant-Supported Bridge

If you lose a tooth, an implant-supported bridge could be a suitable restoration. A traditional fixed bridge requires that neighboring teeth be filed down to support the appliance. An implant-supported bridge is anchored using dental implants rather than natural teeth. This means that more of your teeth are left intact, reducing the chances of tooth decay and gum disease. It can also help preserve your jawbone's density.

For the best dental care or to learn more about our dental services, visit Dream Smiles Dental at 1950 S. Austin Ave., Georgetown 78626, or call (512) 863-2303.