Restorative dentistry focuses on repairing or replacing damaged, decayed, or missing teeth to restore both the function and aesthetics of your smile. This branch of dentistry plays a crucial role in maintaining oral health by addressing issues that affect the teeth’s ability to chew, speak, and perform other essential functions. Through various treatments, restorative dentistry not only improves the look of your smile but also ensures long-term dental health and comfort.
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are custom-made caps that cover a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, strength, and appearance. Crowns are often used to protect a weak tooth from further damage, restore a broken tooth, or cover a tooth after a root canal treatment. Made from materials like porcelain, ceramic, or metal, dental crowns provide a durable and aesthetically pleasing solution that blends seamlessly with the rest of your natural teeth.
Bridges
A dental bridge is a fixed prosthetic device used to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of artificial teeth (pontics) anchored to adjacent healthy teeth or dental implants, bridging the gap left by the missing tooth. Bridges restore the ability to chew and speak properly, while also helping to maintain the alignment of remaining teeth. With proper care, dental bridges can last for many years, improving both the function and appearance of your smile.
Inlays and Onlays
Inlays and onlays are custom-made dental restorations used to repair teeth that are too damaged for a traditional filling but not damaged enough to require a full crown. An inlay fits within the contours of the tooth, while an onlay covers a larger portion, often including the cusps (the chewing surfaces). These restorations are often made from porcelain or composite materials, providing a natural-looking and durable solution for repairing damaged teeth. Inlays and onlays are an excellent option for restoring teeth that require more extensive repair without sacrificing the tooth’s structure.
Restorative dentistry plays a vital role in restoring function, comfort, and beauty to your smile. With treatments like crowns, bridges, and inlays/onlays, you can regain optimal oral health and enjoy a smile that’s both aesthetically pleasing and fully functional.