Restorative dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on repairing or replacing damaged or missing teeth. It’s like fixing a broken toy to make it work perfectly again. Restorative dentists use dental treatments to restore the teeth to their optimal function and appearance. This includes diagnosing, treating, and managing diseases of the teeth and their supporting structures, such as gums and bones.
Restorative Dentistry Treatments
Restorative dentistry offers a wide range of treatments to address different dental problems. Here are some common procedures:
- Dental Fillings: These are used to fix small holes in teeth caused by cavities. The dentist removes the diseased tooth structure and fills it with a special material to prevent further decay.
- Crowns: Crowns are like caps that cover the entire tooth to protect it from further damage. They are often used for teeth that are severely damaged or have large fillings.
- Bridges: Bridges are used to replace missing teeth. They are made up of artificial teeth that are attached to the surrounding teeth using crowns.
- Dental Implants: Dental implants are artificial roots made of metal that are inserted into the jawbone to support artificial teeth. They are a popular option for replacing missing teeth.
- Veneers: Veneers are thin layers of material (usually porcelain) that are attached to the front of teeth to improve their appearance. They can help fix chipped or discolored teeth.
- Dentures & Partials: Replace many or all your lost teeth with a modern and comfortable denture.
- Periodontal Disease Treatment: Stop bleeding gums at the source and improve your gum health.
- TMJ Treatment: Stop jaw pain, alleviate morning headaches, and improve your concentration.
What to Expect
When you visit Mattson Hellickson Dental for restorative dentistry, your journey begins with a comprehensive initial consultation where one of our dentists will thoroughly examine your teeth and discuss your specific concerns. This appointment serves as an excellent opportunity for you to ask questions and gain a clear understanding of what treatment may be needed.
Following this discussion, we will take X-rays and perform a detailed examination to accurately diagnose the extent of any damage or assess missing teeth that require attention.
Based on the thorough diagnosis, your dentist will create a personalized treatment plan specifically tailored to your needs. This comprehensive plan will clearly outline all procedures necessary to restore your teeth to optimal health and function. The actual treatment process varies depending on the specific procedures required and may involve one or multiple visits to complete. For instance, dental fillings can typically be completed in a single appointment, while more complex treatments like crowns might require two separate visits: the first for preparation and tooth shaping, and the second for the final placement of the restoration.
After your restorative procedure is complete, proper follow-up care becomes essential to ensure optimal healing and maximize the longevity of your dental restoration. You will receive specific post-treatment instructions that may include avoiding certain foods during the healing period and maintaining excellent oral hygiene practices. Following these guidelines carefully will help protect your investment in restorative dental work and ensure the best possible long-term results for your oral health.
Benefits of Restorative Dentistry
Restorative dentistry offers numerous benefits that can improve both your oral health and overall well-being. Here are some of the advantages:
- Improved Oral Health: Restorative dentistry helps in preventing further damage to your teeth by addressing existing problems early on. This reduces the risk of more severe issues like tooth loss or infections.
- Enhanced Aesthetic Appeal: Many restorative treatments also improve the appearance of your teeth, boosting your confidence and smile.
- Better Functionality: Restored teeth can chew food more efficiently, which is essential for proper digestion and overall nutrition.
- Increased Durability: Restorative treatments like crowns and bridges can last for many years with proper care, making them a long-term solution for damaged or missing teeth.
- Boosted Self-Esteem: A healthy, restored smile can significantly improve your self-esteem and overall quality of life.
Restorative dentistry is an essential part of maintaining good oral health and achieving optimal dental function and appearance. At Mattson and Hellickson Dental, our experienced team is dedicated to providing you with the best possible care using the latest techniques and technologies. Whether you need a simple dental filling or a more complex procedure like a dental implant, we are here to help you achieve a healthy, beautiful smile.
Don’t hesitate to contact us today at 503-308-7664 or schedule your appointment online and take the first step towards restoring your smile!
