Myths About Restorative Dentistry

Restorative dentistry includes the procedures that dentists perform on patients to keep their mouth healthy. This, of course, includes procedures such as fillings, root canals, and even implants. This specialty focuses on the health of the patient and preventing tooth decay and future problems, where as specialties such as cosmetic dentistry focus on the look of the patient’s teeth. Though there is much that we know about restorative dentistry, there are also several myths about such. Let’s review those myths and the facts that dispute them.

1. Restorative dentistry is only needed if I have bad teeth.

Dental hygiene is a must for everyone. Restorative dentistry is focused on the health of the patient and their teeth, which should be a goal of every patient. Even with a great smile, restorative dentistry can help you continue to prevent tooth decay and disease. Restorative dentistry should not be looked at as a punishment for bad oral health, but a way to bring back oral health and a great and healthy smile.

2. The recovery process when receiving dental implants is long and painful.

Improvements in the dental industry have improved and shortened recovery periods for many dental procedures, including dental implants. During the procedure, anesthesia is used, so the patient is not experiencing any pain in those moments. After the procedure, the recovery period has shortened and takes a month or two to heal. However, the patient is not in pain during the majority of this time. They may, however, experience some sensitivity for some time afterwards. Also, if the patient is receiving crowns, the recovery for that procedure is also fairly short.

3. Dental implants look fake and don’t look like natural teeth.

With improvements in dental procedures came improvements in dental technology. Dental implants are now able to be customized to fit the needs of each patient specifically. This can allow for a perfect fit, perfect color match, as well as a perfect alignment. That means the implant will fit in with the patient’s other teeth and mouth to look like their naturally beautiful smile! These implants are not only natural-looking, but they can be treated just as natural teeth–needing brushing and flossing each day. Sometimes, dental implants can be even easier to care for than natural teeth because they will not develop cavities!

4. The root canal procedure is painful and invasive.

The root canal procedure is usually less painful than the toothache that the patient experienced before the procedure. During the procedure, the patient’s mouth is numbed with anesthesia, so they will not feel any pain nor discomfort. The procedure only requires a 1-2 hour appointment, then the patient is sent home to recover.

5. I cannot afford to get a root canal; they are WAY too expensive!

Dental insurance has improved dramatically in the last few years, and they cover many more treatments than in the past. Most dental insurances cover 50- 80% of the cost of the root canal procedure after reaching your deductible! Also, preserving the natural tooth instead of having the tooth pulled saves the customer money in the long run and keeps the naturally healthy parts of the tooth in place.

6. I don’t need a root canal. I’m not in any pain!

Root canals are not just necessary for patients who are experiencing pain. The nerves within the tooth can die and not cause the patient any pain at all. This can lead to patient’s ignoring the problem, but it is important to note that if treatment is avoided, the problem will become much worse for the patient. Patients with broken or brittle teeth may also benefit from a root canal. Even though the pain is not present, the problem may be, which needs to be treated right away.

If you have any questions about how restorative dentistry can help your smile, reach out to the well-qualified professionals at Maestri Family Dental. They can answer any questions that you may have and clear up any myths about restorative dentistry to put your mind at ease.