Types Of Restorative Dental Procedures

Dentistry is not just about drilling cavities or pulling out teeth. Restorative dentistry is focused on  improving your smile and functionality. Whether it’s one tooth or your whole mouth, some small fixes can ensure a major transformation. Here are some of the most popular types of restorative dental procedures. 

Crowns 

When a tooth is weak, cracked, or so severely damaged as to not be fixed by a normal filling, dentists consider the option of a crown.  It caps the tooth, protecting it from further damage while restoring its shape and bite. It fits directly over the portion that is visible, thereby making it look and behave like the original tooth.

These crowns are made of different dental materials. Porcelain ones are the best that match the natural color of your teeth and are preferred by people, but metal ones are not as pretty, but are stronger and last longer. The dentist normally preps a tooth and places a temporary crown, and later replaces it with a permanent one. In this manner, you can chew without fearing that the tooth will break again.

Inlays and outlays 

Inlays and onlays might sound like complicated dental procedure, but they are custom-made fillings. Regular fillings work for small cavities, but when the damage is bigger, dentists may suggest an inlay or onlay. 

• Inlays fit snugly inside the grooves of a tooth’s chewing surface.
• Onlays go a bit further, covering one or more cusps.

Dentists usually use porcelain, composite resin, or sometimes even gold. They’re stronger and last longer than regular fillings, which is why dentists often suggest them if a tooth needs extra support. 

Full Arch Rehabilitation

Full arch rehabilitation basically means rebuilding all the teeth in either your upper jaw, lower jaw, or sometimes both. 

Patients who’ve lost multiple teeth, have worn-down enamel from grinding, or suffered trauma often go through this. While it might sound overwhelming, the goal is to restore not only appearance but also function, so the person can chew, speak, and smile without discomfort. It does take time, multiple visits, and, a fair amount of patience, but the transformation is incredible. 

Bridges 

Bridges fill the gap left by missing teeth. Dentists attach the bridge to the natural teeth or implants it. The artificial tooth is attached to the natural teeth. There are different types that include traditional, cantilever, and Maryland, but the purpose is the same. Many patients prefer bridges over dentures because they’re fixed in place and feel more natural.

Vaneer

Veneers are considered more cosmetic, but they play a major role in restoring functionality. They are thin shells made of porcelain or resin that get bonded to the front of your teeth.

If your teeth are chipped, discoloured, or just uneven, veneers can make them look straight and bright again. The dentist shaves off a thin layer of enamel first, which makes it permanent. For people who’ve struggled with their teeth for years, veneers can completely change how they feel about smiling.