When Is a Dental Restoration Needed?

The term, “dental restoration,” encompasses a variety of procedures from which anyone, not just individuals with missing or broken teeth, can benefit. Restorative dentistry may entail filling a tooth, placing a crown, installing a bridge, or replacing missing teeth. Due to the broad definition of the term, many people wonder when a dental restoration is necessary. While the answer to that varies from person to person, there are some common conditions that demand a restoration more frequently than others.

Signs it is time for a dental restoration

Most people know when it is time to see a dentist. However, not many are able to gauge the extent of a tooth issue, much less determine what procedure is necessary to fix it. There are telltale signs a person can look for, though, that can tell them restorative dentistry is needed.

Decay

Decay is the most common reason dentists perform restorative dentistry. When a patient has a cavity, a dentist will scrape out the damaged portion of the tooth and fill the hollowed section with a filling material. There are several filling material options, including silver amalgam, gold, composite resin, and porcelain. Materials vary in color, price, and durability.

Erosion

Tooth erosion occurs when the teeth are commonly subjected to acid. Acidic beverages, such as wine and soda, are the most common culprits of tooth erosion, but health conditions, like acid reflux and eating disorders, can also cause the teeth to erode over time.

Erosion is a particularly troublesome problem, as it does not just hit one tooth at a time. If allowed to continue without proper dental restoration, erosion can reshape the whole mouth and alter one’s bite. Depending on the extent of enamel loss, a dental professional may restore eroded teeth with bonding or crowns.

Gum disease

Gum disease is another issue that can affect the whole mouth and cause the progressive deterioration of the teeth and eventual jawbone. Gum disease in its early stages can be reversed with a professional cleaning and good oral hygiene habits. However, once it progresses, the condition may require surgery, bone or tissue grafts, and/or tissue regeneration.

Cracks or chips

Teeth can chip, break, or crack for any number of reasons, including chewing on something hard, grinding, and trauma. Some cracks are more severe than others and can cause sensitivity, pain, and swelling, while others produce no symptoms at all. Depending on the severity of the issue, a dentist may recommend a filling, bonding, crown, root canal, or, in the worst-case scenario, extraction.  

Lost teeth

A missing tooth is the most obvious sign a person requires a dental restoration. Individuals today have several options for replacing missing teeth, including bridges, partial dentures, and implants. The most cost-effective and practical solution depends on how many teeth are missing, the health of the surrounding teeth, and the patient’s overall health.

Conclusion

Several conditions or issues may necessitate a dental restoration. The best thing a person can do if they experience any oral health issues is to schedule a visit with a local dentist who can determine the best course of treatment.

Request an appointment here: https://www.northside-dentalcare.com or call Northside Dental Care, PC at (978) 206-7077 for an appointment in our Peabody office.

Check out what others are saying about our dental services on Yelp: Dental Restoration in Peabody, MA.

Recent Posts

Help Protect Your Teeth With Dental Restorations

As you age, your teeth face challenges from numerous issues. Daily wear from chewing food or stress-related grinding, gum problems from bacteria build-up, and tooth damage from the foods and drinks you consume all play a role in the deterioration of your smile.You and your dentist share a common goal: caring for and preserving your…

What Are Dental Restorations And How Can They Help?

Getting a dental restoration is a way to repair teeth that are damaged, including chipped or cracked teeth, cavities, and worn-down enamel. There are different types of dental restorations available. The recommended restoration will depend on the type of tooth damage, the location of the tooth that is damaged, and the patient’s treatment preference. This…

How Long Will My Dental Restorations Take

Any dental work that is done to repair missing or damaged teeth are types of dental restorations, which can include anything from minor fillings to full implants. How long these restorations take depends entirely on what kind of work is necessary. Some procedures can be performed in a single short appointment, while others might be…

A Step By Step Guide To Getting A Dental Inlay

A dental inlay is often used when a tooth suffers damage or decay that is too extensive to be repaired with a simple filling but not severe enough to need a full dental crown. The process is less invasive compared to dental crowns and is a quick and effective way to restore the appearance of…

Northside Dental Care, PC

Share
Published by
Northside Dental Care, PC

Recent Posts

3 Signs You May Need a Dental Implant

You may not be aware that you need dental implants. But your dentist can tell…

3 days ago

Exploring Different Types of Dental Implants and Their Benefits

Dental implants are lasting and stable dental restorations. Research shows that many people prefer implants…

5 days ago

All-on-4 Treatment from Your Dentist

Talk to your dental professional to find out if you are a candidate and learn…

1 week ago

Understanding the Dental Implant Process

Dental implants replace missing teeth and help with chewing, speaking, and smiling. They can consist…

2 weeks ago

What to Expect When Receiving Dental Implants

Approval for dental implants puts you one step closer to restoring a complete, healthy smile.…

2 weeks ago

What Are the Different Types of Dental Implants?

Dental implants are artificial roots that a dentist surgically places into the jawbone. The prosthetic…

3 weeks ago