What is Considered Major Restorative Dental Work?
Restorative dentistry is a major branch of dentistry that focuses on repairing broken or damaged teeth or replacing missing teeth. The primary goal of restorative dentistry is to restore both the function and appearance of the teeth.
Restorative dental treatment consists of basic and major dental procedures.
Major restorative dental work typically extends beyond root canals and fillings, and is performed when a tooth requires repair or replacement.
Some patients might require one or the other, and in other cases, both. If you live in the Lafayette, LA area, contacting a reliable, professional dentist is vital to receiving the best dental care possible.
Types of major restorative dental work
Dental crown
A crown, or cap, is in the shape of a tooth and is placed entirely on a fractured filling, broken tooth, or decayed tooth. The crown will keep your teeth aligned.
Bridges
A bridge is used to replace a missing tooth by suspending an artificial tooth between two crowns, the natural teeth, or a dental implant. They serve as an anchor for the artificial tooth, while the bridge will keep your other teeth from moving out of place.
Dentures
These are mainly for patients who are missing most or all their teeth. This means you can have partial dentures (have some natural teeth remaining) or complete dentures (no teeth remaining).
Dental implant
This replaces missing or diseased teeth. An artificial root or roots is placed above the jawbone so that the new artificial tooth or teeth can go on top of them. Dental implants and bridges work together to keep the teeth aligned.
Inlay and onlay
Both are used to fill in larger cavities, but an inlay does not expand over the cusps of the tooth, whereas an onlay does. This increases the strength of the tooth. Inlays and onlays are color-matched to your teeth to improve their appearance.
Restorative dentistry has many benefits, which is why it is the most performed procedure. Most people, at some point in their lifetime, will need some type of restorative procedure done.
Keeping up with regularly scheduled dental visits can help your dentist detect an issue as soon as possible so that the problem can be corrected and teeth restored.
The purposes of restorative dentistry
Restores functionality of the teeth
This allows you to eat and speak easily because your teeth are healthy.
Eliminates pain
If you have a cavity or infected tooth, you probably are experiencing pain. Restorative dentistry will remove the pain and infection, making your teeth healthy again.
Replace teeth
If you have missing or lost teeth, restorative dentistry can add a bridge, dentures, or both so that your teeth’s alignment is not affected. This also makes it easy to maintain good oral hygiene.
Improves your smile and appearance
Restorative dentistry will make your teeth look better and brighter so that you can smile with confidence.
Prevent further dental issues
Addressing dental issues as soon as they occur will help correct the problems quickly and prevent them from possibly getting worse.
Preventative dental services include procedures that help stop long-term damages, such as routine dental cleanings and examinations, fluoride treatments, and tooth sealants.
Major dental services such as bridgework, dental implants, and dentures often require the participation of a dental laboratory.
Understanding the difference between minor and major dental problems may help you prevent further dental issues from occurring.
If you think you might benefit from restorative dentistry, contact Maestri Dental in the Lafayette, LA, area at 337-704-2126 today. Dr. Gina Liggio Maestri and our highly skilled team value long-term patient relationships.
We believe in working with patients to alleviate any concerns or uncomfortable feelings they may have. We will be waiting to restore your beautiful smile.
Resources:
What is the Basic Restorative Dental Services
What is Considered Basic Restorative Dental Work
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