Restorative Dentistry
Restorative dentistry is a term used for a broad range of necessary (non-cosmetic) dental procedures.
Restorative dentistry is used to replace or repair missing or damaged teeth. Restorative dentistry aims to improve your oral health and ability to chew properly without pain.
The Differences Between Restorative Dentistry and Cosmetic Dentistry
Restorative dentistry’s focus is on restoring and improving your oral health. Cosmetic dentistry’s focus is on improving the appearance of your smile.
Who Needs Restorative Dentistry?
If you have cavities, damaged, broken, missing teeth, or tooth decay, you should see your dentist in Bay Springs, MS, immediately.
The Different Types of Dental Restorations
There are many different types of restorations dentists use to keep and/or restore your oral health.
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Dental Fillings
Dental fillings are used to fill cavities and prevent the progression of tooth decay and other damage.
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Root Canals
If you have a deep cavity that reaches your tooth’s pulp, your dentist will remove the root of your tooth (pulp) to prevent the infection from spreading. The root canal will then be filled with a special dental material and capped with a crown.
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Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are used in both restorative dentistry and cosmetic dentistry. In restorative dentistry, crowns are used to cover a tooth after a root canal. They are also used to cover and seal cracked teeth. In cosmetic dentistry, dental crowns are frequently used as the top portion of a dental implant.
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Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth. The bridge is made up of artificial teeth supported by a dental crown on each side.
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Dental Implants
Dental implants are used in both restorative dentistry and cosmetic dentistry. In restorative dentistry, dental implants are used to replace missing teeth lost due to a dental or health problem or injury. In cosmetic dentistry, dental implants are used to replace teeth for people who have opted to have their teeth pulled and replaced with implants for cosmetic reasons.
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Inlays and Onlays
For cavities that are too big for a filling are too small for a crown, your dentist might want to perform an inlay or onlay. Inlays and onlays are bonded into the small holes and cracks in your teeth. Inlays fill the spaces between the cusps of your teeth. An onlay covers one or more cusps of your teeth.
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Dentures
Dentures are removable dental appliances that replace an entire arch of missing teeth. Then, there are partial dentures that replace one or more missing teeth.
Materials Most Commonly Used for Dental Restorations
There are a variety of materials used to make dental restorations.
- Resins
- Composites
- Ceramics
- Metals
- Amalgam
- Glass ionomers
- Polymers
- Denture base acrylic resin (used to make denture bases and try-in dentures)
The Recovery Time After Having a Restorative Dentistry Procedure
The recovery time needed after a restorative dental procedure will vary from person to person. Recovery time is based on several factors, like the number of teeth that need to be treated, if you are getting dental implants, etc.
Contact a Reputable Dentist in Bay Springs, MS
Whether you need restorative dentistry or are considering a cosmetic dentistry treatment, please Contact McLaurin Dental Clinic today. We love crafting perfect smiles!