What are the most common types of Restorative Dentistry?

Categories: Cosmetic Dentistry

Our smiles play a significant role in our self-esteem. Therefore, when we experience dental problems, our self-esteem can take a hit. Luckily, dental procedures are available to restore our happy, healthy smiles.

Restorative dentistry involves fixing teeth that are damaged or replacing missing teeth. Teeth damage is usually due to dental cavities where holes form in the tooth. It can also be in the form of tooth decay. Dental cavities and tooth decay often occur following the ingestion of too much sugar.

Our mouths inhabit thousands of bacteria. The bacteria feed on food residue after a carbohydrate-rich meal, or sugars from cakes and candies. The bacteria then release acid that erodes the enamel of the tooth. When we consume much sugar, more acid is produced, causing much damage to the teeth. This eventually leads to cavities and tooth decay.

Another common cause of tooth damage is injuries or trauma. A fall can cause a tooth crack, chip, or even completely remove teeth.

Common types of restorative dentistry.

There are several types of restorative dentistry. The best option for restorative dentistry depends on the dental problem of the patient. The common types of restorative dentistry include:

1. Dental implants.

This type of restorative dentistry is increasing in popularity for teeth replacement. Implants are suitable for the replacement of multiple missing teeth. In this type, the dentist will surgically insert a metal screw to the jaw, where teeth are missing, which acts as the root of the artificial teeth. One metal can support around three replacement teeth making dental implants a convenient restorative procedure in people who have multiple teeth missing around a single area.

Dental implants are the most beneficial type of restorative dentistry because they resemble natural teeth. The dentures that the dentist fits after inserting the metal act like natural teeth. They do not slip or move in the mouth during speaking or eating.

2. Dentures.

Another type of restorative dentistry is dentures. Dentures can be used as an alternative to dental implants in replacing missing teeth. Dentures are removable; they can be placed and removed from the mouth when necessary. This aspect makes dentures different from dental implants. Dental implants are not removable like dentures; they are permanent and can only be removed through the surgical removal of the inserted metal screw.

Dentures resemble prosthetics. They can be full, for a person missing all teeth in either one jaw or both jaws, or partial. Dentures are uniquely made for a patient using an impression of the mouth. They usually resemble natural teeth but might take a while before the patient gets used to the denture. This is because, during the first few days, the patient feels as if the dentures are loose, especially while eating or speaking. However, with time, the teeth and muscles of the mouth get used to holding the dentures in place to avoid them from slipping in the mouth.

3. Tooth fillings.

These are the most popular restorative dentistry; almost everyone has had a tooth filling at least once in their life. Fillings are a suitable type of restorative dentistry in dental cavities and cracked teeth. In the case of cavities, the dentist removes the damaged part of the tooth and fills the tooth.

4. Dental crowns.

A dental crown resembles a cap. It is cemented over a damaged tooth to improve the smile of the patient. The crown also strengthens the tooth and aligns it. Similar to dental implants, only a dentist can remove the crown once it is placed. A crown can also be used together with dental implants to make tooth replacement more permanent and natural. There are several types of crowns, such as ceramic, acrylic, metal, gold, and porcelain.