Restorative Procedures
Almost everyone will experience tooth decay at some point in his or her life. Swift detection and correction of tooth decay can minimize the significant expenses and inconveniences associated with more serious problems caused by tooth decay. Restorative dentistry treats all phases of tooth decay, from simple cavity fillings to entire tooth replacements.
Fillings
Problem
Tooth decay that has led to the development of a cavity, or small hole, in the tooth.
Solution
Fillings. We will remove all areas of decay, and replace with a filling made of silver (amalgam) or composite resin. Composite resin fillings have surged in popularity because their appearance perfectly matches the natural appearance of teeth.
Alternatives
In cases of more extensive decay, porcelain inlays and onlays are an advisable alternative.
Inlays & Onlays
Problem
Tooth decay, weakened tooth structure, need for tooth restoration and reinforcement.
Solution
After the decay is removed, your dentist will take an impression of the area to be restored. A dental laboratory works from this impression to create a restorative inlay or onlay, usually out of gold or porcelain, that fits perfectly on the tooth. Inlays cover one or more tooth surfaces, where onlays are used on the chewing surface of the tooth. The inlay or onlay is cemented securely into place, for an incredibly durable, stable tooth restoration. Porcelain is the preferred restorative material; it is extremely strong and can perfectly match the patient's natural tooth color.
Alternatives
Crowns may be the only alternative when tooth decay is in advanced stages.
Crowns
Problem
Teeth that are chipped, cracked, badly decayed, or otherwise weakened.
Solution
Crowns maintain the aesthetic appearance of teeth by covering the entire visible surface of the tooth, while adding significant reinforcement and protection to the tooth. Crowns can be made of porcelain or gold. Porcelain crowns are extremely natural looking; virtually indistinguishable from other teeth, making them an ideal choice for visible teeth. Gold crowns pose no risk of chipping, and are sometimes advised when crowning back teeth.
Alternatives
Teeth that are badly decayed may require extraction, leaving bridges or implants as viable alternative treatments.
Fixed Bridges
Problem
Patients who are missing a tooth or several teeth may experience difficulty chewing and speaking, dental shifts, and an undesirable sunken facial appearance. In addition, missing teeth can eventually lead to jaw and joint problems that are costly to treat.
Solution
Fixed bridges can improve chewing and aesthetic appearance, restoring the smile with a more permanent solution than dentures. Bridges replace missing teeth with artificial teeth. Your dentist will take a mold of the gap where a tooth is missing, and then send it to a laboratory to prepare a customized bridge. Before inserting the bridge, the surrounding teeth are prepared. The bridge is set into place and the artificial tooth is securely cemented to the adjacent teeth, restoring the attractive natural appearance and functionality of the tooth that was lost. If a resin-bonded bridge is chosen, the artificial tooth is secured by means of a metal appliance that attaches to the backs of adjacent teeth.
Alternatives
Dental implants are permanent, stable alternatives to bridges that do not rely upon surrounding teeth for support.
Root Canal Therapy
Problem
The inside of each tooth is filled with "pulp", which carries the tooth's blood supply and nerves. If bacteria gain access to the pulp, through a fracture or deep cavity, the pulp may become infected, leading to pain and a risk of tooth loss.
Solution
In a root canal, your dentist will remove the infected pulp and replace it with a rubber sealant. The tooth is then covered with a protective crown, which reinforces the tooth against future fractures and enhances the tooth's appearance. Root canals have an extremely high success rate in saving teeth that would otherwise be lost to infection.
Alternatives
The only alternative to root canal therapy is tooth extraction.