The Importance of Restoring a Tooth
August 2, 2017
Preventing dental issues is the goal, but sometimes life happens. Cavities can occur, accidents can happen, teeth can break. Restorative dental care is all about restoring your tooth back to it’s natural function and appearance. Restorative dentistry includes treatments like fillings, root canal treatment, and dental crowns. Restoring a tooth with one of these treatments can save a tooth from extraction, as well as the way to protect it from future complications. Restorative treatment not only protects the tooth that is being restored, but the surrounding teeth can also benefit. This type of care restores the health and integrity of your teeth.
Fillings
Most cavities can be prevented with good oral hygiene and mindful eating and drinking. However, some cavities can occur despite our best efforts. Teeth grinding can cause tiny cracks in teeth that can cause cavities. Hereditary genes can cause weaker enamel. Whatever the cause of the cavity, if treated early, a cavity can be stopped. A cavity is a hole in the tooth’s enamel. Over time, harmful bacteria can get inside the hole and cause it to deepen into the inner layers of the tooth. A filling can stop a cavity from growing. Your dentist will disinfect the area and restore the tooth with a biocompatible composite resin like the one used in cosmetic bonding. The resin will look and act like your natural tooth.
Root Canal Treatment
Also known as endodontics, root canal treatment can treat cavities that progressed to the inner layers of the tooth. Once a cavity reaches the inner pulp of the tooth, there can be a lot of pain. If left untreated, the canal can become infected, and the infection can spread throughout your body. A root canal treatment removes the infected area including parts of the tooth, disinfects the area, and fills it in. A dental crown is usually used to cover the remainder of the tooth to protect it from further damage. If root canal treatment is not done, the next step may be an extraction of the tooth.
Restoring a Damaged or Infected Tooth Is Important
Visit your dentist to discuss your restorative dentistry options. To learn more, schedule a consultation by calling Cosmetic & Implant Dentistry of Kansas City, MO, today at 816-427-4018.