Dental restoration

Dental Restoration refers to the process of restoring the function, integrity, and morphology of missing tooth structure, which may have been caused by caries or external trauma, such as chipping or cracking a tooth. This process is typically carried out by a dentist using a variety of materials and techniques.

Types of Dental Restoration

There are several types of dental restoration, each suited to different circumstances and patient needs. These include:

• Fillings: These are the most common type of dental restoration. Fillings are used to fill a cavity in a tooth caused by decay. The most common types of materials used for fillings are amalgam, composite resin, and porcelain.

• Crowns: A crown is a type of dental restoration which completely caps or encircles a tooth or dental implant. Crowns are often used when a large cavity threatens the ongoing health of a tooth.

• Bridges': A bridge is a type of dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth by joining an artificial tooth definitively to adjacent teeth or dental implants.

• Dentures: Dentures are prosthetic devices constructed to replace missing teeth, and are supported by the surrounding soft and hard tissues of the oral cavity.

• Veneers: A veneer is a layer of material placed over a tooth, either to improve the aesthetics of a tooth or to protect the tooth's surface from damage.

Materials Used in Dental Restoration

Various materials can be used for dental restorations, including:

• Amalgam: This is a common material used in fillings. It is durable and has a long lifespan, but its silver color can be noticeable when you laugh or speak.

• Composite Resin: This is a tooth-colored filling material that may be used to restore decayed teeth.

• Porcelain: This material is often used for crowns and veneers. It is strong, durable, and can be made to match the color of your natural teeth.

• Gold: Gold is often used for crowns, inlays, and onlays. It is durable and has a long lifespan, but it is more noticeable than other materials.

Procedure of Dental Restoration

The procedure for dental restoration will depend on the type of restoration needed. However, most dental restorations will involve the following steps:

• Examination: The dentist will examine your teeth to determine the extent of the decay or damage and the best type of restoration for your situation.

• Preparation: The dentist will prepare the tooth for restoration. This may involve removing decay, reshaping the tooth, or taking impressions for a crown, bridge, or denture.

• Placement: The dentist will place the restoration, which may involve filling a cavity, cementing a crown, or fitting a denture.

• Finishing: The dentist will finish the restoration by polishing the filling, crown, or denture and making any necessary adjustments to ensure a proper fit and comfortable bite.

See Also

• Dental Surgery
• Oral Hygiene
• Dental Implants
• Dental Prophylaxis