Receiving Restorative Care from a Local Family Dentist
Based on the latest studies, a vast majority of Americans suffer from some type of tooth damage. While one minor cavity or chipped tooth may not seem like much of a problem, those issues are actually doorways to much more extensive consequences. At the same time, a growing number of people are suffering from sudden, unexpected tooth damage due to falls, vehicle accidents, unfortunate sports run-ins, and other situations. Whether tooth damage is the result of accidents or gradual development, receiving care is essential.
Types of Restorative Care Available from a Local Dentist
When a patient suffers from tooth damage, restorative care is the key to reversing the situation and preventing it from growing worse. A Local Family Dentist offers numerous restorative treatments for just such instances. From tooth decay to chipped or broken teeth, you’ll have access to the care you need when visiting a dentist in your area.
Tooth Fillings and Bonding
Cavities are a common problem among people of all ages. Dentists offer fillings to deal with tooth decay. They remove the decayed portion of the affected tooth, leaving behind a hole. From there, they clean the hole and fill it with specially developed materials. A unique type of light is used to harden the material. Then, it’s smoothed and shaped. For chipped or broken teeth, dentists can often use the same types of materials to make the necessary repairs. This process is called bonding.
Crowns and Veneers
In some cases, damaged teeth can’t be repaired via bonding or fillings. In those instances, a dentist may use crowns or veneers. Crowns are coverings for damaged teeth, and they can protect against further damage. For those with numerous damaged teeth, veneers may be the best solution. Veneers cover the surfaces of the teeth to hide chips, cracks, discoloration, and other problems. Though they’re often used in cosmetic dentistry, they’re common in restorative dentistry as well.
Bridges, Dentures, and Implants
Almost half of Americans have at least one missing tooth. Many have lost either several or all of their teeth due to accidents, tooth decay, gum disease, and other problems. For those who are missing some of their teeth, bridges and implants can be used to replace them.
Those who are missing all their teeth can also benefit from implants or dentures. Replacing missing teeth with artificial ones can help prevent the deterioration of the jawbones while keeping the remaining teeth from shifting. This type of treatment also helps to maintain the patient’s facial structure.
Keeping Your Teeth in Top-Notch Shape
Dentists offer several treatment options for damaged and missing teeth. Those who suffer from tooth decay, chips, and cracks may need fillings or bonding. For teeth that can’t be repaired, crowns and veneers are available. For missing teeth or teeth that need to be extracted because they can’t be saved, implants, dentures, and bridges could be effective solutions. Dentists take care to match replacement teeth to the color of the natural ones surrounding them. They also develop customized treatment plans for dental problems based on the unique needs of each patient, ensuring everyone gets the care that’s best suited to their situation.