Like most people, you probably recognize that your teeth are very important—not just for achieving a perfect smile, but also for proper function and health. Taking care of your teeth entails following a good hygiene regimen at home, visiting our Danville, IN dentist regularly, and making sure any problems are addressed promptly. If you do have any problems with your teeth, you may need restorative dentistry to get your smile back in shape.
What is Restorative Dentistry?
Restorative dentistry is the branch of dental practice that focuses on repairing and restoring teeth that are damaged, decayed, or lost entirely. It can involve a variety of procedures and placement of prosthetics such as dental crowns, bridges, and dentures. Restorative dentistry can help to improve the tooth structure and function, and it can also help to prevent further damage. Below, you will find a few of the restorations we offer in our office.
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are a type of restoration that is used to repair damaged teeth and add much-needed support following treatment of infection, decay, or trauma. The crowns are placed over the existing tooth structure and held in place with dental cement. The crown protects the damaged tooth from further problems and restores it to its natural shape, shade, size, and function. The process of applying a crown is as follows:
- Tooth preparation: First, the tooth is prepared and reshaped to accommodate the prosthetic and ensure a blendable fit.
- Tooth impressions: Next, we will take an impression of the prepared tooth. This will help us design a crown that perfectly fits.
- Crown fabrication: From there, we fabricate a temporary crown and place it over the prepared tooth.
- Crown placement: Once the permanent crown is created and ready for application, it will be cemented into position over the tooth. With proper care, the crown can last between 15 and 30 years before requiring replacement.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are a common restorative treatment used to replace one or more missing teeth in a sequence. Bridges are made up of two crowns that are attached to teeth adjacent to the gap, known as abutment teeth. Between these two crowns, artificial teeth, or pontics, are used to close the gap. This creates a “bridge” of sorts, hence the name. Bridges are a fixed restoration, meaning they are cemented into place and do not need to be removed. With proper care, your dental bridge can last up to 10 years.
Dentures
Dentures are an effective way to replace virtually any number of teeth in your mouth. In fact, this restoration comes in two different forms: full and partial.
- Full dentures are used to replace an entire arch of missing teeth. Featuring artificial teeth set on a gum-colored base, full dentures are held in place with natural suction or denture adhesive. The appliance provides support to the skin, lips, and cheeks. Additionally, of course, these dentures restore the appearance of your smile and your ability to chew and speak properly.
- Partial dentures are used when you only have a few missing teeth in an arch. They are held in place with a metal framework that is attached to your natural teeth. Like full dentures, partial dentures are made of artificial teeth; these are designed to blend naturally with surrounding teeth.
The versatility and functionality of dentures make them a great option for those who have lost most or all of their teeth, as well as those who have lost just a few. They can be custom-made to suit your smile perfectly.
Dentures are removable restorations that must be taken out and cleaned daily. This is to ensure the longevity of the prosthetic, as well as the health of your gums and any remaining teeth.
We understand that the decision to seek restorative dentistry treatment can be daunting. However, we can assure you that our team is here to support you every step of the way. We will work with you to select a restoration that meets your needs, budget, and desired results. Contact our office today to learn more about our restorative options!