Restorative dentists have multiple procedures to improve their patients' smiles. Here are some things to think about.
If an individual has dental issues that pertain to health and functionality of the oral structures,
restorative dentists are the practitioners to turn to. These DDSs are a bit different from general, pediatric or cosmetic practitioners. When patients' teeth become damaged, cracked, or develop infections, they can be restored to health by this type of practitioner. If there are problems with surrounding tissue and gums, these also can be taken care of. A general dentist would take care of basics such as cleaning, exams, filling cavities and diagnosing diseases. Pediatric specialists focus on the overall wellbeing of patients from birth through adolescence. Cosmetic experts concentrate on the appearance of the pearly whites. There is often some overlap between these various types of oral healthcare providers.
Some specific treatments and procedures that restorative DDSs perform include:
- TMJ: TMJ stands for temporomandibular joint and becomes a problem from a crooked bite which results in grinding teeth at night or during the day. TMJ is a painful condition that not only hurts the jaw region but also ears, neck and the entire head. Restorative dentists can alleviate this condition.
- Root canals: Root canals are performed in order to alleviate nerve pain and save a tooth. The internal pulp regions become infected and can lead to intense nerve pain. When a root canal takes place, the infection and nerves are removed from the internal structures and a crown is placed over the top in order to stabilize the entire structure.
- Dental implants: These implants are a cutting edge way to replace lost or missing teeth. Instead of a traditional bridge or set of dentures, these devices are anchored into the jawbone with a titanium screw. It was discovered by a European doctor that titanium and human bone adhere permanently creating a very strong result. After a titanium root is placed, it is left alone for a few months in order to allow the bone to grow over it. Next an abutment is placed and finally a natural looking crown is installed.
- Gum disease: Gingivitis and periodontal disease cause the gums to become swollen and bleed. This situation leads to the breakdown of the oral structures and lost teeth. There are surgical and non-surgical treatments to remedy gum disease.
- Crowns: If a tooth becomes weak because of decay or cracked due to an injury, a crown can be placed over the structure to reinforce it. Crowns are similar to caps and can be made of porcelain, metal or ceramic. Some are comprised of gold or a combination of these materials.
- Full-mouth makeover: Some patients need to have multiple techniques performed in order to have a healthy and attractive smile. This full-mouth makeover would be carried out over a series of appointments in order to give the patient a lovely smile and increased dental wellbeing.
When a patient has maladies in his or her oral structures that include damage, decay, and disease in the teeth and gums, these can all be remedied with a variety of procedures. Restorative dentists are the DDSs to turn to when health, functionality and appearance of smiles needs improvement.
