A restorative dentist supports healthy bite function and smile appearance, helping patients regain both comfort and confidence. Restorative dental care means repairing damaged teeth, replacing missing teeth, and treating gum disease, among other oral health problems. A trained restorative dentist can help transform even a severely damaged smile into a healthy one.
General dentists who focus on treating oral health problems are also known as restorative dentists. They can restore a smile affected by tooth decay, enamel chips and cracks, lost teeth, or even early-stage gum disease. These dentists can also help with tooth pain, including in cases where the patient cannot see the damage. Often, this points to decay being too small or difficult to see without dental tools.
A restorative dentist has several ways to rebuild a smile. To determine which would be the most effective, they will review medical history, take detailed images, and perform a thorough examination. Then, they will recommend one or more of the following treatment paths:
A restorative dentist can use a variety of dental restorations to repair a decayed or damaged tooth. Dental fillings are an effective option for minor repairs, while more extensive damage may need a dental crown. For cases in between, a dental inlay or onlay can repair a tooth by fitting into the damaged area like a puzzle piece. Each of these options comes in tooth-colored materials that blend with the surrounding enamel and teeth. A restorative or general dentist can also discuss traditional metal options, such as silver amalgam or gold.
Missing teeth can affect facial appearance, chewing function, and self-confidence. A restorative dentist has several options for replacing missing teeth. The most popular are dental implants, which replace tooth roots with small titanium posts that support realistic dental prosthetics (crowns, bridges, or dentures). Implant-supported tooth replacements help prevent jawbone loss while also looking and feeling like natural teeth.
Traditional bridges and modern dentures are other reliable options. A bridge uses neighboring teeth for support, creating a natural-looking replacement for one or several missing teeth. Meanwhile, well-designed removable dentures restore a full arch of teeth, improve speech clarity, and support facial muscles.
The gums are another point of focus in restorative dentistry. When the gums become inflamed or recede, the teeth lose essential support. A restorative dentist may recommend deep cleaning or other periodontal therapies to reduce inflammation and protect tooth roots. These treatments can also help reverse early-stage gum disease, or gingivitis. Healthier gums provide a solid foundation for natural teeth, as well as any existing dental restorations.
Choosing a general dentist skilled in restorative treatments provides access to innovative techniques, durable materials, and a personalized approach to care. These dentists create customized treatment plans to support a healthy smile that stands the test of time. To schedule an appointment with a restorative dentist in Farmington, contact Farmington Family Dentistry today.
Request an appointment here: https://www.myfarmingtondentist.com or call Farmington Family Dentistry at (505) 295-4075 for an appointment in our Farmington office.
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