The Science of Smile Make Overs and Dental Restorations
Types of Dental Restorations:
Dental Fillings: Dental fillings are a common dental treatment used to repair teeth damaged by tooth decay. When the decay is removed, the resulting hole is filled with a dental filling material to restore the tooth's structure and prevent further damage. Fillings are typically used for small to moderate-sized cavities and come in different materials, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Amalgam fillings, also known as silver fillings, are made of a blend of metals and are known for their durability, strength, and affordability. Composite resin fillings, also referred to as tooth-coloured fillings, are made of a mixture of plastic and glass materials that can be matched to the colour of your natural teeth. These fillings are often used for front teeth or visible areas of the mouth. Glass ionomer fillings are made of a blend of glass and acrylic materials and are known for their ability to release fluoride, which helps prevent further tooth decay. Your dentist can help you determine which type of filling is best for your specific needs.
Dental Crowns: Dental crowns are custom-made tooth-shaped caps that fit over a damaged or decayed tooth. They are designed to restore the tooth's shape, size, strength, and improve its overall appearance. Dental crowns are a common dental procedure and are used to treat a range of dental problems, including teeth that have undergone root canal therapy, have large cavities, or have suffered from extensive damage.
Dental crowns are made to order and can be crafted using various materials. Porcelain, for example, is a popular material as it closely mimics the look and feel of natural teeth. Metal alloys, such as gold or silver, are also used to make dental crowns, and they are known for their durability and strength. Some people prefer to have a combination of both materials to create a crown that is both strong and aesthetically pleasing.
The dental crown procedure involves several steps. First, the dentist will prepare the tooth by removing any decay or damage and shaping it to fit the crown. Then, they will take an impression of the tooth, which will be sent to a dental laboratory to create the custom crown. In the meantime, the dentist will place a temporary crown over the prepared tooth to protect it. Finally, once the custom crown is ready, the dentist will remove the temporary crown and cement the new crown in place.
Overall, dental crowns are an effective and reliable solution for restoring damaged or decayed teeth. They can improve the appearance and function of the tooth, and can even help to prevent further damage or decay.
Inlays and Onlays: Inlays and onlays are used for medium-sized cavities or tooth damage. They are custom-made restorations that can be created from materials like porcelain, composite resin, or gold.
Dental Bridges: Dental bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth. They consist of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) held in place by dental crowns on adjacent natural teeth.
Dental Implants: Dental implants are used to replace a missing tooth or teeth by surgically implanting an artificial tooth root (implant) into the jawbone and attaching a dental crown on top.
Dentures: Dentures are removable dental appliances that replace multiple missing teeth. They can be full dentures (replacing all teeth) or partial dentures (replacing some missing teeth).
Veneers: Dental veneers are thin shells made of porcelain or composite resin that are bonded’ front surfaces to improve their appearance, shape, and colour.
Dental restorations are essential for preserving teeth, preventing damage, and maintaining oral health. The choice of restoration depends on the patient's specific dental problem and the dentist's recommendations.