Practitioners in general dentistry use a variety of tooth repair and restoration methods. When evaluating treatment options, your dentist will consider factors such as the extent of the decay or damage, the need for cosmetic improvement, and the durability of the procedure.
These are three of the most common methods to fix damaged teeth.
Fillings are the type of dental repair used most often for cavities, cracks, and breaks. The dentist first removes the damaged portion of the tooth and then reshapes the remaining part. To fill in and enclose the cavity or crevice, the dentist applies an amalgam, composite, or metal material.
Although amalgam is visible when the mouth is open, it is ideal for molars and is the least expensive filling material. Composite, or filled resin, can match tooth color and is recommended for cavity areas of the small or medium size exposed to moderate chewing. Metal fillings are the most durable, lasting 10-15 years, but they are the most expensive.
Crowns are tooth-shaped coverings that restore a tooth’s shape, size, and appearance. They have several functions, such as protecting weak teeth and fastening dental bridges, as well as repairing broken teeth and holding cracked teeth together. A crown may also cover an implant or tooth treated with a root canal.
The crown procedure begins with filing across the top and the sides of the damaged tooth or teeth. Next, the dentist takes impressions of the patient’s prepared teeth and sends them to a lab to create a crown that fits the patient’s mouth and tooth color. The dentist then places a temporary crown over the tooth until the lab returns the new crown.
Patients return to the office a few weeks later for crown placement. First, the dentist checks the new crown to ensure it fits and blends in with the remaining teeth. Then the dentist removes the temporary crown and cements the new crown in place.
In general dentistry, dental implants are used to replace lost teeth and hold bridges and dentures securely. You may be a candidate for implants if you have severe cavity damage, root fractures, or teeth lost due to injury. Having a healthy jawbone is the primary requirement for the procedure. You could, however, have problems with the implantation if you smoke, have uncontrolled diabetes, or have had radiation therapy to the head and neck.
In the implant process, the implants are placed into the jawbone and heal in place, bonding with the jaw. Matching tooth crowns are then crafted in a lab. A few months later, after the gum tissue has healed, the patient returns to the office. The dentist joins the implants and the crowns by using connectors called abutments for each replacement tooth.
Implants look very natural and also feel like real teeth. To prevent gum disease and maintain oral health, patients must continue adequate oral care and regular dental checkups after receiving implants.
The recovery process for each treatment is different. Follow your dentist's instructions when it comes to dietary changes, pain management, and routine cleaning. Make regular dental appointments a priority.
Fillings require little to no recovery for most patients. Some people may experience minor soreness on the day of the treatment, but this tends to dissipate quickly. Many people resume normal daily activities immediately after the procedure. However, it is important to wait to eat until after any numbing agents have completely worn off. Otherwise, it is possible to unknowingly damage the soft tissues of the mouth. Avoid sticky foods and keep the area clean with daily brushing and flossing.
It is normal to experience some minor discomfort and sensitivity after receiving a dental crown. Avoiding hard, hot, or cold foods can help; these symptoms should improve in a few days. Long-term, avoid habits that can damage a crown. Chewing on ice or foreign objects or clenching and grinding your teeth can chip or crack the material. Hard, tough, or crunchy foods can also cause damage and may even cause the crown to dislodge over time.
For some people, implants can require months of recovery as the tissues heal and the metal components fuse to the bone. During the recovery period, proper cleaning and diet modification are essential to prevent infection, implant failure, and pain. However, once healing is complete, dietary or cleaning changes are rarely needed.
General dentistry research continues to advance dental restoration materials and techniques. With your dentist’s help, you can find an affordable and effective repair solution to bring back your teeth and your smile.
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