Restorative Dentistry

Restorative dentistry is the branch of dental care that focuses on restoring the function, integrity, and appearance of damaged or missing teeth. The primary goals of restorative dentistry are to: 

• Restore functionality: Teeth that are damaged or missing can impair your ability to chew, speak, and perform other essential functions. Restorative dentistry aims to restore these functions, enabling you to eat, speak, and smile with confidence. 

• Enhance aesthetics: In addition to improving functionality, restorative dentistry also focuses on enhancing the appearance of your smile. Restorative treatments can correct issues such as tooth discoloration, uneven spacing, and misalignment. 

• Prevent further damage: By addressing dental issues promptly, restorative dentistry can prevent further damage to your teeth and gums. This can help you avoid more extensive and costly treatments in the future. 

• Improve oral health: Restorative treatments can help eliminate infections, reduce the risk of decay, and promote overall oral health. Healthy teeth and gums are essential for maintaining a healthy body. 

Common Restorative Dentistry Services in Royal Oak, MI  

Here are the common restorative dentistry services offered at Royal Oak Dental. 

Dental Crowns in Royal Oak, MI  

Dental crowns are one of the most common restorative procedures performed at Royal Oak Dental. A dental crown, also known as a cap, is a custom-made covering that is placed over a damaged or decayed tooth to restore its shape, size, strength, and appearance. 

Indications for Dental Crowns 

Crowns are typically recommended for the following conditions: 

• Severe tooth decay: When a tooth is extensively decayed and cannot be repaired with a filling, a crown may be necessary to protect and strengthen the tooth. 

• Cracked or fractured teeth: Crowns can restore the integrity of a tooth that has been cracked or fractured due to trauma or injury. 

• Large fillings: If a tooth has a large filling that compromises its structure, a crown can provide additional support. 

• Root canal treatment: After a root canal, a tooth may become brittle and require a crown to prevent fracture. 

• Cosmetic enhancement: Crowns can also be used to improve the appearance of a tooth that is misshapen, discolored, or misaligned. 

Dental Bridges in Royal Oak, MI  

A dental bridge is a restorative solution used to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of one or more artificial teeth (pontics) that are anchored in place by dental crowns on the adjacent natural teeth or implants. 

Types of Dental Bridges 

At Royal Oak Dental, we offer several types of dental bridges, including: 

• Traditional bridges: These are the most common type of bridge and consist of one or more pontics held in place by crowns installed on the adjacent natural teeth. 

• Cantilever bridges: Used when there is only one natural tooth available to support the bridge, cantilever bridges are less common and typically recommended for areas of the mouth that do not experience heavy biting forces. 

• Maryland bridges: Also known as resin-bonded bridges, these bridges use a metal or porcelain framework bonded to the back of the adjacent teeth. They are often used to replace front teeth. 

• Implant-supported bridges: For patients who have multiple missing teeth, implant-supported bridges can be a durable and long-lasting solution. Dental implants are placed in the jawbone to support the bridge, providing excellent stability. Contact us to learn more. 

Dental Implants in Royal Oak, MI  

Dental implants are the gold standard in tooth replacement, being a permanent solution for missing teeth. A dental implant is a titanium post that is surgically placed into the jawbone to serve as a replacement for the root of a missing tooth. Once the implant has been fused with the bone (through a process called osseointegration), it can support a crown, bridge, or denture. 

Benefits of Dental Implants 

Dental implants can provide numerous benefits, including: 

• Natural-looking appearance: Implants closely resemble natural teeth in both appearance and function. 

• Durability: With proper care, dental implants can last a lifetime. 

• Bone preservation: Implants help preserve the jawbone by preventing the bone loss that typically occurs when a tooth is missing. 

• Improved function: Implants provide excellent stability, allowing you to chew, speak, and smile with confidence. 

• No impact on adjacent teeth: Unlike bridges, implants do not require the alteration of adjacent natural teeth. 

Dentures and Partials in Royal Oak, MI  

Dentures are a popular and effective solution for patients who have lost multiple teeth. At Royal Oak Dental, we offer both full and partial dentures to restore your smile and improve your quality of life. 

Full Dentures 

Full dentures are used when all the teeth in the upper or lower jaw are missing. They consist of a complete set of artificial teeth attached to a gum-colored acrylic base that sits snugly over the gums. 

Partial Dentures 

Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain. They consist of artificial teeth attached to a metal or acrylic framework held in place by clasps that attach to the remaining natural teeth. 

Inlays and Onlays 

Inlays and onlays are conservative restorative options used to repair teeth that have moderate decay or damage. They are often used when a tooth is too damaged for a filling but not damaged enough to require a crown. 

• Inlays: Inlays are custom-made restorations that fit into the grooves of a tooth but do not extend over the cusps (the raised points on the chewing surface). 

• Onlays: Onlays are similar to inlays but extend over one or more cusps, providing additional coverage and support. 

Restorative Dentistry and Oral Health 

Restorative dentistry plays a crucial role in maintaining overall oral health. By addressing issues such as decay, damage, and tooth loss, restorative treatments help prevent further complications and promote a healthy, functional smile. 

Preventive Measures 

In addition to restorative treatments, it’s important to practice good oral hygiene and attend regular dental checkups to prevent future dental issues. At Royal Oak Dental, we emphasize the importance of preventive care, including: 

• Regular cleanings: Professional cleanings help remove plaque and tartar buildup, reducing the risk of decay and gum disease. 

• Oral hygiene education: We provide guidance on proper brushing and flossing techniques to maintain optimal oral health. 

• Early detection: Regular exams allow us to detect and address dental issues in their early stages, preventing the need for more extensive treatments. 

Conclusion 

Restorative dentistry at Royal Oak Dental is all about helping you regain a healthy, functional, and beautiful smile. Whether you need a simple filling, a crown, or a full-mouth restoration, our team of experienced professionals is here to provide you with the highest level of care. 

We understand that each patient is unique, and we tailor our restorative treatments to meet your specific needs and goals. Our commitment to using the latest dental technology and techniques ensures that you receive the best possible results. 

Ready to achieve your perfect smile? Contact Royal Oak Dental today at 248-398-1818 or visit us at 715 North Main Street, Royal Oak, MI 48067. Our expert team is here to provide you with the best dental care and personalized treatment plans to meet your needs. Book your appointment now and take the first step towards a healthier, brighter smile!