Restorative Dentistry Services: What Are Your Options?

Have you ever wondered if it is possible to regain your teeth’s former glory? Restorative dentistry works to restore damaged teeth using modern dental procedures and technology. Most cases of damaged teeth resulting from excessive wear and tear, natural defects and external injuries or traumas can all be successfully treated, while more advanced cases may require treatment from more than one specialist.

Who needs restorative dentistry?

In general, restorative dentistry aims to improve the health, function, and appearance of the teeth and gums. A dentist will initially evaluate an individual’s oral health and recommend a personalized treatment plan that may include restorative procedures. In some cases, your dentist may refer you to other specialists such as periodontists or prosthodontists?

Why do you need restorative dentistry services?

There are many reasons why someone may need restorative dentistry, including:

1. Tooth decay: When a cavity develops in a tooth, restorative dentistry can remove the decay and restore the tooth with a filling or crown.
2. Broken or chipped teeth: Accidents or trauma can cause teeth to break or chip, and restorative dentistry can repair the damage to restore the tooth’s natural appearance and function.
3. Gum disease: Advanced gum disease can lead to tooth loss, and restorative dentistry can replace missing teeth with bridges, implants, or dentures.
4. Wear and tear: Teeth naturally wear down over time, and restorative dentistry can repair or replace worn teeth to restore proper function.
5. Cosmetic concerns: Restorative dentistry can also address cosmetic concerns, such as discoloration, uneven or misshapen teeth, and gaps between teeth.

Restorative dentistry vs cosmetic dentistry, what’s the difference?

In general, restorative dentistry improves the functionality of teeth, while cosmetic dentistry is dental work that improves the appearance of teeth, gums and/or bite.

Restorative dentistry involves oral procedures to improve and maintain the function of the mouth, while cosmetic dentistry treatments can alter the colour, shape, and size of teeth. Restorative dental care means fixing teeth to work well again and removing very bad pain , while cosmetic dentistry provides a winning smile with perfectly aligned white teeth. 

Restorative dental treatments require a bit more urgency, with procedures that are done in order to repair a chipped, decayed, or absent tooth. Individuals often get dental care because their teeth are in poor condition. People who have dental pains, swelling, or bleeding frequently visit a dentist to be treated with restorative dental care to reduce these problems.

On the other hand, cosmetic dental procedures are voluntary treatments employed to modify the hue, shape, size, position, and spacing of teeth. Most people go to a dentist to get cosmetic dental care because they are not pleased with the look of their smile, rather than because they are suffering from symptoms. Therefore, while restorative dental treatments must be done to address the signs and fix the tooth, cosmetic dental treatments are not as urgent.

Another point of difference is in the process itself. Different materials are used for different dental procedures, and the cost of restorative and cosmetic dentistry can also vary.

What are the different types of dental restoration?

There are several types of dental restorations that dentists may use to repair damaged or missing teeth. Some common types of dental restorations include:

1. Dental fillings – Often available in a liquid or paste form, they are utilized to mend minor cavities in teeth. Generally, they are composed of amalgam (a blend of metals), composite resin, or porcelain.
2. Crowns: These are used to cover a damaged or weakened tooth to provide it with additional support and protection. Dental crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, metal, or a combination of both.
3. Bridges: These are used to replace one or more missing teeth. Dental bridges consist of one or more artificial teeth, which are anchored in place by dental crowns attached to the adjacent natural teeth.
4. Dentures: Also known as false teeth, these are used to replace multiple missing teeth. Dentures can be partial or full, and they can be made from a variety of materials, including acrylic, porcelain, or a combination of both.
5. Dental implants: These are used to replace a missing tooth or teeth. Implants are surgically placed into the jawbone, and a dental crown or bridge is attached to the implant to replace the missing tooth.
6. Inlays and Onlays: Similar to dental fillings, these are used to repair damaged or decayed teeth, as well as cavities that are too big for a general dental filling to fix. They are custom-made restorations that are bonded to the tooth’s surface, and they can be made from materials such as porcelain, gold, or composite resin.

The type of restoration that is best for you will depend on your individual needs and the extent of the damage to your teeth. Your dentist can help you determine which type of restoration is right for you.

How long does it take to recover after a dental restoration procedure?

The recovery time or downtime after a dental restoration can vary depending on the type and extent of the restoration. In general, smaller restorations such as fillings and inlays may require little to no downtime, while more extensive restorations such as dental implants or full mouth restorations may require a longer recovery period.

For example, after getting a general tooth filling, most people can return to their normal activities immediately after the procedure. However, they may experience some sensitivity or discomfort in the treated tooth for a few days. For a more complex procedure such as getting a crown or bridge, patients may experience some temporary sensitivity or discomfort and may need to avoid chewing hard or sticky foods for a few days, up to a week. Major reconstructions and procedures such as dental implants, patients may need to take a few days off work and avoid strenuous activity for a few weeks to allow the implant to properly heal.

How do you take care of your dental restoration?

To take care of dental restorations and ensure proper healing, it is important to follow any post-treatment instructions provided by your dentist. These may include:

• Refraining from consuming hard, chewy, or sticky foodstuff for a given time span
• Taking medication for pain or making use of ice packs to manage any inflammation or swelling
• Cleansing and flossing your teeth on a regular basis
• Organizing follow-up visits to the dentist to monitor the healing process and make any essential alterations to the restoration

It is also important to maintain good overall oral health as a way to keep future dental restorations from becoming necessary. This incorporates regular dental exams and cleanings, consuming a balanced diet, and avoiding habits that can damage your teeth, such as smoking or gnawing on ice or hard substances.

What should I look for in a restorative dentistry provider?

When looking for a restorative dentistry provider in Australia, there are a few things to consider. Here are some key factors to look for:

• Qualifications and accreditation: Look for a provider who is accredited by the Australian Dental Association (ADA) or a similar professional organization. This can ensure that the provider meets certain standards for quality and safety.
• Specialised training and experience: Look for a provider who has specialized training and experience in restorative dentistry. This can include additional training in areas such as dental implants, crowns and bridges, and dentures.
• Range of services: Look for a provider who offers a range of restorative dentistry services to meet your needs. This can include services such as fillings, crowns and bridges, dentures, and dental implants.
• Technology and techniques: Look for a provider who uses the latest technology and techniques in restorative dentistry. This can ensure that you receive the most effective and efficient treatment possible.
• Cost and insurance coverage: Make sure that the provider’s services are reasonable and that they accept your health or dental insurance plan. Ask about any financing options or payment plans that may be available to help make treatment more affordable.
• Accessibility and convenience: Choose a provider who is conveniently located and has flexible scheduling options. This can help make it easier to schedule appointments and receive care when you need it.

By considering these factors, you can find a restorative dentistry provider in Australia who can help you achieve optimal dental health and a beautiful, functional smile.

Visit EDR for all your denture needs

As an established provider of a wide range of restorative dentistry services for over 35 years – from general dental procedures to a mobile denture clinic – Emergency Denture Repair is dedicated to finding each patient the ideal dental restoration solution for their needs.

Contact EDR today to book a consultation or denture procedure, or to discuss the cost of dentures now.