Which Dental Restoration Should You Choose?

More people are choosing dental restoration to repair damaged teeth and produce a winning smile. The days of metal fillings and obvious crowns are well in the past. Today's restorative processes can provide a beautiful smile while repairing and supporting natural teeth. Patients should consult with a dentist to develop an appropriate plan for restoring stability to teeth and preserving dental function. 

Types of restoration treatments available

Patients need to understand the available treatment options when choosing a dental restoration procedure. These are a few of the most commonly performed restorations: 

Fillings

Dental cavities occur when bacteria erode enamel tooth surfaces. If left untreated, decay can cause further damage, possibly endangering the entire tooth. Dentists routinely treat cavities with fillings that are placed directly into the affected tooth. Dental fillings may be made from metal, composite resin, porcelain, or ceramic. 

Veneers

When dealing with a chipped, worn, or stained tooth, a veneer may be used to cover the imperfection. Veneers are thin covers that are bonded to the front of tooth surfaces, restoring a natural look. Composite resin and porcelain are common choices for veneer material. 

Crowns and bridges

When dental restoration involves more than the front of a tooth, a crown may be a good choice. It covers the entire damaged tooth, restoring not only its appearance but also its full function. Dental crowns are often ceramic or porcelain over metal. Dental bridges connect and support multiple crowns placed on nearby teeth.  

Implants

A dental implant offers a long-term solution when a dentist cannot preserve a natural tooth. It consists of a metal post placed directly into the jaw. A replacement tooth is attached to the post once the jaw has healed.  

Factors that influence dental restoration decisions

Not all dental care decisions are straightforward. Patients should discuss options with a qualified dentist, considering factors such as these: 

The overall condition of the teeth

Teeth that are in overall healthy shape, with only minor imperfections, have more restoration options than those with a compromised structure or unhealthy root systems. Jaw health density also impacts the decision for invasive treatments such as implants because the bone must grow around the appliance.   

The location of dental damage

Different treatments are preferable depending on which part of the tooth and where within the mouth the damage is located. Tooth-colored porcelain or resin composite materials are preferable in highly visible locations, while many dentists use metal for less obvious repairs.  

Recovery time after treatment

Patients can return to regular activity immediately after some dental restoration treatments. With others, the recovery process can take longer. A procedure such as a dental implant may require several months total for complete healing.

Conclusion

Dental restoration aims to preserve as much of the natural teeth as possible while improving appearance and function and encouraging proper oral hygiene. Patients should work with a trusted dentist to find the right treatment to meet their needs.  

Are you considering dental restoration in the Albuquerque area? Get more information at https://www.roderickgarciadmd.com.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Restorations in Albuquerque, NM.