Common Dental Restoration Procedures

Getting the right dental restoration can improve your appearance and dental health. Your dentist will discuss the possible procedures that will fit your needs. Knowing more about these treatments can help you prepare for your next visit. Here are the common dental restoration procedures available.

Inlays

These restorations can be tooth-colored porcelain, gold, or composite material. This type of dental restoration is a good alternative for composite and silver fillings. The dentist can use inlays for repairing decayed or damaged teeth. These restorations can also improve the way a tooth looks.

Dental implants

The dentist can offer these restorations if the patient wants stability and strength. A dental implant can restore a tooth that other treatments cannot repair. Replacing a tooth with this dental restoration can end the difficulties of using removable dental replacements. Dental implants can prevent jawbone loss and dental shifting by merging with the jawbone and gum tissue.

Onlays

This type of dental restoration is also known as a partial dental crown. The dentist can suggest onlays if the patient has large cavities. The process involves the removal of little healthy dental structures. That is why many patients prefer having a dental onlay over a dental crown.

Dental crowns

Crowns can cover the blemishes of teeth. These restorations can protect the tooth from future damage. Each crown will stick to the treated tooth by means of strong dental cement. A patient can get this type of dental restoration for teeth with severe damage or a post-root canal treatment.

Composite fillings

A composite filling is a dental restoration that is much like conventional dental fillings. But composite fillings are more durable. They are designed to endure resistance and stress. Research shows that these restorations can last for at least 10 years. This tooth-colored filling blends well with the neighboring natural teeth.

Fixed bridges

These restorations can replace consecutive teeth. The dentist will place dental crowns on the opposite or abutment teeth of the dental gap. These crowns will support the artificial teeth. This type of dental restoration can help manage chronic gum disease. The bridge sets right above the gums.

Full or partial dentures

A denture is a removable denture restoration. The patient can remove the restoration for cleaning and soaking overnight. This gives the gums time to rest and recover as the patient sleeps. Full dentures replace full dental arches. Partial dentures replace teeth in different areas of the dental arch.

Root canal

The dentist can perform this procedure to maintain a tooth with a damaged or infected pulp. Giving the patient some anesthetic and the right type of sedative are necessary to make the procedure painless. Removing the infected or damaged pulp will come first. After cleaning, disinfecting, and drying the pulp chamber, the dentist will fill the chamber with gutta-percha. The dentist will place a custom-fit dental crown over the treated tooth.