Restorative dentistry
Field of dentistry that deals with the restoration of structure and function of missing tooth parts caused by decay or external trauma
“Restorative dentistry” is the term dental professionals use to explain how they replace missing or damaged teeth. Fillings, inlays and onlays, crowns, bridges and implants are common restorative options. The goal is to bring back your natural smile, correct the functional problems of your bite and prevent future oral health issues.
The most common way of restoring damaged teeth are the direct composite dental fillings. In cases when teeth have different problems like, caries/decay, structural problems like abrasions, erosions, worn teeth, gaps between them etc, dental fillings are indicated. These fillings could be made out of composites, glass ionomer cements or compomers - materials that are a mixture from the two. The amalgams are also materials that have been used for direct restorations in the past, but they are not that common any more because of their aesthetic disadvantages.
However, teeth that have bigger defects are indicated for indirect restorations including inlays and onlays. Both inlays and onlays are considered “indirect” fillings, meaning that they are fabricated outside the mouth (generally at a dental laboratory), and then bonded to the tooth by the dentist. This is in contrast to a “direct” filling, which is applied directly to the cavity by the dentist in one office visit. Inlays and onlays could be made out of different materials, including porcelain, composite, gold or different metals.
Crowns, bridges and dental implants are separately described in other service sections.
Find out more in the “what to expect” and “FAQ” sections.
The most common way of restoring damaged teeth are the direct composite dental fillings. In cases when teeth have different problems like, caries/decay, structural problems like abrasions, erosions, worn teeth, gaps between them etc, dental fillings are indicated. These fillings could be made out of composites, glass ionomer cements or compomers - materials that are a mixture from the two. The amalgams are also materials that have been used for direct restorations in the past, but they are not that common any more because of their aesthetic disadvantages.
However, teeth that have bigger defects are indicated for indirect restorations including inlays and onlays. Both inlays and onlays are considered “indirect” fillings, meaning that they are fabricated outside the mouth (generally at a dental laboratory), and then bonded to the tooth by the dentist. This is in contrast to a “direct” filling, which is applied directly to the cavity by the dentist in one office visit. Inlays and onlays could be made out of different materials, including porcelain, composite, gold or different metals.
Crowns, bridges and dental implants are separately described in other service sections.
Find out more in the “what to expect” and “FAQ” sections.
Dental Fillings
The procedure for tooth cavity filling is relatively easy and forthright and If you have an appointment, you should plan to be with your dentist for at least an hour. Within this time, the dentist will have sufficient time to perform x-rays, if required, discuss the process with you and perform the intervention.
At the beginning of the procedure, the dentist will desensitize your mouth with the help of local anesthetics so that your gums, teeth, and adjoining skin get numb to lessen pain during the procedure.
In some situations, the dentist may place a rubber sheet in your mouth to enable easy access to the affected tooth. It also helps to stop liquid or tooth chips from getting into your mouth or down your throat.
Afterward, the dentist will drill out the decayed material in the tooth. When your tooth is entirely free of decay and before commencing cavity filling, the dentist will proceed with cleaning the area carefully.
The process of removing the decayed material leaves a space in the tooth. At this stage, the dentist will fill the space up with filling material like composites or glass ionomer cements. The hole has to be filled completely, in order to prevent bacteria buildup in the area and shield your teeth from further decay. After filling the cavity, they will file and smooth the tooth to ensure it does not interfere with your chewing. This process will be complete in a few minutes.
The numbness in your mouth usually persists for another couple of hours until the anesthetic wears off. During that period, do not chew using the affected tooth or eat hot meals, so you do not cause injury to yourself. You should note that the filled tooth may be sensitive to cold and heat for several days or a week after the operation. Usually, the sensitivity will disappear on its own.
Inlays/Onlays/Overlays
Getting an inlay or onlay is very much like what you would experience having a crown placed, with one important distinction: less of your natural tooth structure will need to be removed by drilling when you receive an inlay or onlay.
The first steps in getting an inlay or onlay are numbing the tooth and surrounding area with a local anesthetic, and then removing the decay. This is done in order to prevent the decay, which is actually a type of infection, from progressing deeper into the tooth.
Once the tooth has been prepared, an impression of it is made (either digitally or with a putty-like material) and sent to the dental laboratory. There, the impression is used to make a model of your tooth for the creation of your inlay/onlay. The final restoration can be made out of gold or a tooth-colored ceramic or resin.
Before you leave the office, a temporary filling will be attached to your tooth to protect it until the permanent restoration is ready. At your second visit, the permanent inlay/onlay will be attached to your tooth with either a resin that hardens when exposed to a special light source, or a type of permanent cement.
Inlays and onlays are strong, long-lasting, and require no greater level of care than any other tooth. Conscientious daily brushing and flossing, and regular professional cleanings at the dental office are all you need to make sure your restoration lasts for years to come.
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