Restorative Dentistry

What are dental restorations?

Dental restorations is an umbrella term used to describe various methods that dentists use to replace or restore missing teeth or missing parts of a tooth’s structure. 

There are several reasons you might need a dental restoration, including:

• Tooth decay
• Tooth deterioration
• Cracked teeth
• Chipped teeth

You might also benefit from dental restorations if you have stained or yellow teeth that don’t respond to traditional teeth whitening treatments. 

What’s the difference between crowns, bridges, and veneers?

Crowns, bridges, and veneers are three of the most common types of dental restorations, but they’re used to correct different problems. Let’s take a closer look:

Dental crowns

Dental crowns are tooth-shaped coverings that your dentist affixes to the top of a chipped, cracked, or decaying tooth. Once placed, a crown covers the entire portion of tooth enamel that sits above your gum line. In addition to restoring your smile, crowns restore your chewing and biting abilities.

Dental bridges

If you’re missing one or several permanent teeth, your dentist might recommend restoring your smile using a dental bridge. Bridges are oral prosthetics used to bridge a gap or space in your smile.

A dental bridge features a false tooth and two crowns. The false tooth sits inside the gap left by a missing tooth, and your dentist holds your bridge in place by bonding it to two of your permanent teeth on either side of the gap. 

Veneers

If you have discolored or awkwardly-shaped teeth, your dentist might recommend veneers. Dental veneers are thin, custom-made shells of porcelain or composite resin that your dentist bonds to the front of your permanent teeth. To provide an even, attractive smile, the providers at Yampa Valley Family Dentistry usually recommend getting six or eight veneers. 

Which type of dental restoration is right for me?

To determine the type of dental restoration you’ll most benefit from, make an appointment at Yampa Valley Family Dentistry.

Following an oral exam, discussion of your goals for treatment, and a review of your medical history, your dentist can make recommendations that align with your budget and individual needs. 

How do I care for my dental restorations?

You care for your dental restorations like you would your natural, permanent teeth. Brush your teeth twice a day, floss once every day, and visit Yampa Valley Family Dentistry every six months for a professional exam and cleaning.

You should also avoid bad habits such as biting your fingernails or chewing on ice. These steps will ensure your crowns, bridges, and veneers last for years to come. 

To learn more about the benefits of crowns, bridges, and veneers, make an appointment at Yampa Valley Family Dentistry today by calling the office or clicking the online booking tool.