What Are Dental Restorations?
Dental restorations are procedures used to repair damaged or decayed teeth, restoring both function and appearance. They are essential for maintaining oral health by fixing cavities, cracks, or worn-out areas in teeth. Restorations not only protect the tooth from further damage but also help improve your ability to chew, speak, and smile confidently.
Types of Dental Restorations
There are various types of dental restorations, including:
Fillings: Used to fill cavities caused by tooth decay. They are commonly made from materials like composite resin, porcelain, or amalgam. Fillings help restore the tooth’s structure and prevent further decay.
Crowns: Caps placed over a damaged or weakened tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. Crowns are often made of ceramic, metal, or porcelain fused to metal, providing durability and a natural look.
Inlays and Onlays: These are custom-made restorations that fit into the grooves of a tooth or over the biting surface when the damage is too extensive for a filling but not severe enough for a crown.
Dental Implants: A permanent solution for missing teeth, implants consist of a titanium post surgically placed in the jawbone, acting as a replacement root. A crown is then placed on top, mimicking a natural tooth.
The Restoration Process
Your dentist will evaluate the extent of damage to determine the appropriate restoration. Depending on the type, the procedure can be done in a single visit (like fillings) or over multiple appointments (like crowns or implants). The goal is to restore the tooth’s functionality and improve its appearance, ensuring long-term oral health.
Aftercare
Proper oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups are essential to maintain the longevity of dental restorations. Brush twice daily, floss regularly, and avoid habits like grinding or biting on hard objects to preserve the restored teeth.
