Restorative dentistry to the rescue! A guide to treating dental damage
You never have to undergo restorative dentistry procedures because oral conditions are largely preventable. Restorations are designed to treat the damage caused by untreated oral conditions. However, this branch of dentistry plays an important role at Abingdon Smiles. Few things are as rewarding to our Abingdon, Virginia team as helping patients feel “whole” again by completing their broken, gapped smiles. Few dental care categories are as versatile and multi-faceted as restorative dentistry services.
What oral conditions does restorative dentistry treat?
Your teeth can become damaged due to various conditions and situations, ranging from chronic tooth decay to an acute injury. Any time a tooth is weakened due to injury, trauma, or disease, we may recommend a service to restore its structure, strength, aesthetics, function, and health.
What are some examples of restorative dentistry “in action”?
We have successfully preserved all sorts of examples of damaged teeth. For instance, dental fillings do just the trick for smaller cavities or more modest decay. For more extensive decay, dental inlays, onlays, and crowns can be appropriate options. For those whose teeth might otherwise need to be extracted due to deep internal damage, root canal therapy followed by a crown “saves” the affected tooth. We also have options to replace teeth that cannot be saved with the restorations mentioned above.
How do you replace teeth?
We are proud to offer so many choices to our patients who are missing a single tooth, a few teeth, or several teeth or who have a mouth full of gaps or failing teeth. If you fall more into the former category and are missing one tooth or a few teeth, dental bridges may be appropriate. We are happy to explore denture options for those needing to replace more teeth. We also offer alternatives to these methods in the form of dental implants.
How do dental implants “work”?
Think of the implant as an artificial tooth root. This small, cylindrical-shaped post is inserted into the jawbone. One implant may be used to support or “root” the prosthetic tooth (crown) in the jawbone. Or, more implants can be applied to support additional teeth (such as an implant-supported dental bridge or denture).
Are some options better than others?
There is no option that is universally better or worse. There may be, however, options that are better or worse for you. It’s important for us to get to know your specific needs, preferences, and goals. From there, we can provide you with credible information. So, you feel empowered to make the best decision, one that you will feel good about. To start the process today, give Abingdon Smiles a call. Serving Southwest VA, our team can be reached at (276) 451-2450.
