Ask a General Dentist: What Is Restorative Dentistry?

A general dentist can perform restorative dentistry procedures. These treatments focus on the rejuvenation of dentition. Some of them are short procedures, while others take time. If you want to find out more about restorative dentistry, here are some facts from a general dentist.

Restorative dentistry’s definition

Restorative dentistry is capable of replacing missing or damaged teeth. Saving natural teeth is its priority. It removes decaying dental tissue and repairs cavities. Restorative dentistry also treats other dental issues. Patients who need emergency dental repairs are ideal for restorative dentistry procedures.

Restorative dentistry also includes procedures from other fields of dentistry. A few of them are periodontics, endodontics, and prosthodontics. Many patients need several types of dental care to achieve optimal health. Restorative dentistry can provide this type of care. It can treat patients at any life stage. The most common ones are adults and seniors.

Common restorative materials

A general dentist replaces dental structures with durable materials. Fabrications in restorative dentistry use metals, denture base resins, and amalgam. They also use glass ionomers, polymers, ceramics, and composite resin. The choice of material depends on the patient’s preference, dental needs, and budget.

The difference between restorative and cosmetic dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry procedures aim to improve a patient’s self-image and appearance. This field of dentistry uses the same materials as restorative dentistry. The procedure is still restorative if the goal is to correct an injury or disease. A patient regains the structure and function of dental components.

Treatments and procedures

Restorative dentistry involves the use of various treatments and procedures. The dentist can provide dentures to patients who have several missing teeth. A patient loses many teeth because of advanced gum disease or tooth decay. Dentures are removable. These are custom-fit for the patient, but it takes time to adjust to.

Dental crowns can either be metal or tooth-colored composite. A dentist often recommends crowns to cover a tooth with severe damage or decay. It may follow a root canal or a dental implant procedure. A general dentist performs a root canal if the pulp develops an infection. The dentist takes out the damaged pulp, cleans out the tooth, and fills the space with gutta-percha. A dental crown covers and protects the tooth from future damage.

A dental implant also uses a dental crown. In this procedure, the dentist removes a tooth with severe damage. The damage often reaches below or above the gumline. The dentist drills an implant hole into the extraction site’s jawbone and screws in a titanium rod. This procedure ends with the placement of a dental crown to replace a lost tooth.

The general dentist can also use dental bonding to restore a damaged tooth. Composite resin replaces the missing part of the tooth. The dentist dries, shapes, and polishes it. This makes the tooth blend with neighboring natural teeth. It is a painless and quick procedure.