Restorative Dentistry in Pasadena

Restorative Dentistry

Restorative dentistry continues to advance every day with the introduction of new and better materials and technology. When the repair of existing teeth and/or replacement of missing teeth is needed (to restore function and esthetics) multiple restorative options are available and will be discussed by the professional staff at Art of Smiles.

Composite bonding

Tooth-colored fillings

Tooth-colored, metal-free fillings (composite bonding) are attractive, durable alternatives to silver fillings; and today these are the materials of choice due to their excellent properties.

Crowns and Bridgework

A crown is used to restore a tooth with a compromised structure so that it can function as a natural tooth. There are many reasons why a crown may be necessary: to protect a weak tooth from breaking, to restore a tooth that is damaged due to decay or trauma, and so forth. it can also be used as the final restoration of a dental implant. Crowns can be made from different materials like gold, porcelain fused to a metal substructure or all porcelain as zirconia.

Fitting a crown requires at least two visits to our office. The initial visit will focus on removing decay, shaping the tooth, and fitting it with a temporary crown. The second visit will be comprised of removing the temporary crown, fitting and adjusting the final crown and cementing it in place. Your crown will be artistically restored so that it will look and feel like your natural teeth.

A fixed bridge is a permanent restoration to replace one or more missing teeth. After diagnostic models of the teeth are made and a temporary replica of the final bridge is fabricated, the anchoring teeth for the bridge are prepared. Preparation of the anchoring teeth takes place by removing tooth structure similar to preparing the tooth for a crown (cap). Accurate impressions (molds) of the teeth are then taken and sent to the lab to fabricate the final bridge, and a temporary bridge is fabricated and temporarily cemented in place. On the following appointment, the final bridge will be carefully checked for fit, esthetics; and the bite is verified and adjusted if needed then cemented permanently.

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FAQs

What is restorative dentistry?

Restorative dentistry is a branch of dental care focused on repairing or replacing damaged or missing teeth. The primary goal is to help restore the mouth's function and aesthetic appearance through various treatments like fillings, crowns, or bridges.

What is the difference between a dental bridge and a dental crown?

A crown (often called a cap) is designed to cover and protect a single damaged or weakened tooth. A bridge is used to fill a gap left by one or more missing teeth by anchoring to the natural teeth or implants on either side of the space.

Are modern dental fillings noticeable?

Many modern restorative treatments use composite bonding, which is a tooth-colored material. These metal-free fillings are designed to blend in with your natural teeth, making them a popular choice for those who prefer a more seamless look compared to traditional silver fillings.

How many appointments are typically needed for a dental crown?

While every case is unique, the standard process for a custom crown generally involves at least two visits. The first visit is typically for preparing the tooth and taking impressions, while the second visit is for fitting and securing the final restoration.

Why might someone need a dental restoration?

Restorations are commonly used to address issues such as tooth decay, structural damage from trauma, or tooth loss. These procedures aim to help the teeth function properly for activities like chewing and speaking while maintaining the natural shape of the smile.