Types Of Restorative Dentistry
Fillings
Cavities are a common dental issue that plague many people, making cavity fillings one of the most common forms of dental restoration. Cavities happen when bacteria wears away enamel, creating holes in the tooth. Cavities lead to toothache and pain as the holes expose the dentin (first layer under the enamel) or the pulp (inner layer containing nerve endings), depending on how deep the cavity goes. To stop the pain and prevent tooth decay from spreading, dentists use fillings to repair the teeth. Using durable and wear-resistant materials, they will fill in the hole in the tooth and leave it with a smooth finish.
Root Canals
Once a cavity reaches the pulp of the tooth, it can cause an infection that spreads to the root (the base) and leads to dead or dying tissue within the tooth. Root canals remove any of this dead or dying tissue to prevent the spread of the infection and to save the natural tooth. During this restorative procedure, the root is extracted and the tooth is filled with durable composite material, giving the tooth strength and keeping out infection.
Crowns
Dental crowns are used when a tooth is too damaged or cracked for a filling. When a crown is placed on a tooth, the outer layer must first be shaved down so that the crown can be cemented on top to feel and look like a natural tooth.
Bridges
A bridge is a simple and natural-looking solution when a tooth is missing or has been extracted. An artificial tooth is suspended between two crowns and those crowns are placed on the two teeth on either side of the gap. The crowns of the bridge apparatus will be placed the same way as regular crowns, by grinding the tooth and then cementing the crown in place. Bridges are highly beneficial for those who want their missing tooth to be permanently replaced without any surgical recovery time.
Dental Implants
A dental implant is a surgical option to replace missing or extracted teeth. During dental implant surgery, a metal root that resembles a hollow screw will be placed in the jaw and will fuse with the jawbone as it heals. Next, an abutment (a piece of metal that shows above the gums) will be placed into the implant. Finally, a crown is secured to the abutment to give the appearance and function of a natural tooth.
Dentures
A person can get full dentures (dentures that include all of the teeth for that portion of the jaw) or partial dentures (dentures that have only some artificial teeth and that stay in place using any remaining teeth) depending on how many teeth they are missing. Dentures are a removable restorative dentistry option that some people prefer over dental implants or bridges, as they are not permanent.
Restorative Dentistry In Calgary
No matter the cause or the issue, when you need restorative dentistry, Marlborough Dental Centre in Calgary has you covered. Our dental services include all of the above restorative dentistry techniques and we strive to keep the natural structure of the teeth while keeping their normal form, function, and appearance. At our NE clinic in Marlborough, our dentists can preserve and enhance your smile using the most up-to-date restorative dentistry technology that not only looks great, but that preserves your oral health. To get restorative dentistry from the experts at Marlborough Dental Centre, call 1-403-248-2066 or fill out the contact form.
FAQ
Q: Is a dental implant or a bridge a better way to replace my missing tooth?
A: That depends on your preference. Dental implants and bridges both replace missing teeth, but dental implants help retain jaw bone density while bridges have no healing time. Once you have a dental implant, it will be as though you have a regular tooth, whereas a dental bridge may require you to floss around the artificial tooth with a dental threader as the tops of the teeth will be connected.
Q: If I have a toothache, does that mean I’ll need restorative dentistry?
A: While a toothache can be indicative of a cavity, cracked tooth, or infection, it can also be caused by other issues that do not require restorative dentistry. If you floss around the area and use a cold compress on the outside of the mouth and the toothache still persists for more than 1 or 2 days, visit us at Marlborough Dental Centre and we will examine your tooth to determine what steps to take next.
Q: How long do dental fillings normally last?
A: How long your dental filling will last will depend on how well you take care of your oral health, if you grind your teeth, and how often you visit your dentist for regular dental exams. Typically, a dental filling will generally last 10-12 years.
