Restorative dentistry fixes a wide range of concerns, right from worn and discolored teeth to unhealthy teeth affected by decay. Most patients don’t understand the types of restorations and procedures, and as a result, many have unfounded fears. While your dentist in East Charlotte, NC, will determine which restoration you need, here is an overview of the most common ones.
Dental fillings
The chances are high that you either have a filling or know someone who has one. Dental fillings are used to fill a cavity caused by decay. Your dentist will start by cleaning the tooth, after which they will fill it with silver amalgam or composite resin. Composite resins are preferred because the material resembles a natural tooth color and doesn’t contract/expand like metal. Getting a filling takes one appointment, and you will not feel any pain.
Crowns
A dental crown is like a cap that covers an entire tooth. If a tooth has a large cavity that cannot be repaired with dental fillings, a crown may be necessary. Usually, dental crowns are also required after root canal therapy and to repair chipped and worn-down teeth. You need two appointments to get a crown. During the first visit, your dentist will prepare the tooth and take bite impressions to order the custom restoration. You will return for a second appointment when the dentist will fix the crown. Ceramic, porcelain, and porcelain-fused-to-metal are common options, and most of them last for a decade or more.
Implants
If you want a more permanent procedure, go for implants. Dental implants are replacement roots that hold restorations like crowns, bridges, and dentures. Getting implant posts requires surgery. There are two kinds of dental implants – endosteal and subperiosteal. While subperiosteal implants are placed on/above the jawbone, endosteal implants are drilled into the bone. Implants become a part of the mouth and can last for decades, although you may have to replace restorations. Implant-supported dentures, crowns, and bridges offer much better comfort than traditional counterparts.
Bridges
A dental bridge has false teeth in between with crowns on both sides. Bridges are usually made of porcelain, which resemble natural teeth. If you get a traditional bridge, two abutment teeth on both sides will be buffed and prepared for crowns. There are different types of dental bridges, and your dentist will determine what may work best for your needs. Much like other restorations, bridges can last for 10 to 15 years.
Dentures
Dentures are removable prosthetic teeth that can replace many missing teeth in a row. You can get conventional dentures or choose implant-supported ones. Implant-supported dentures feel more comfortable, don’t move around, and offer better chewing function, and only your dentist can remove them. Conventional dentures can be full or partial, depending on the number of missing teeth, and you can remove them at night.
Veneers
If you have stained, gapped, chipped, or worn teeth, you can also consider veneers. Dental veneers are like thin shells and cover only the front part of your teeth. You can expect to get a straighter and more aligned smile with veneers, and while the common goal is addressing cosmetic enhancements, veneers are also used for restorations. Your dentist will have to buff your teeth to remove enamel for veneers, and that step cannot be reversed. You can only get veneers if you have healthy teeth and gums.
Final takeaway
Find dental clinics in East Charlotte that specialize in restorations to learn more about options. With restorations, replacements are necessary at some point, but as long as you focus on oral hygiene and keep up with dental exams and cleanings, you can expect excellent results.