Hey, my name is Shelly Katalgo. My love for sedation dentistry started in high school. My best friend had a severe fear of going to the dentist and I wanted to help her feel better about it. Although I always enjoyed my dental visits, I felt bad that she struggled so much with going to hers. My parents taught me about sedation dentistry and I instantly dreamed of becoming a dental professional. I wanted to help kids like my friend stay fear free throughout their appointments by using gentle techniques and professional medications. Although I opted to follow a different career path, my passion for dentistry remained throughout the years. I will update my site with developments in this industry as soon as they are reported. I will also discuss the benefits of sedation dentistry in detail. Thanks for visiting. I hope you come back soon.
Franklin Steward
Restorative dentistry involves the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of oral diseases, as well as the rehabilitation of the dentition to the functional and aesthetic requirements of the individual.
Crowns and Bridges
Crowns and bridges are two of the fundamental instruments in the restorative dentist's toolkit. Crowns are caps that cover a damaged tooth, while bridges serve as a literal bridge between teeth to fill a gap from missing teeth. Crafted from materials such as porcelain, metal, or a combination of both, they not only restore functionality but also mimic the natural appearance of teeth. The process of fitting a crown or bridge is a custom job tailored to each patient. It begins with preparing the teeth and taking impressions, followed by the fabrication of the bespoke piece in a dental laboratory. The final step involves bonding the crown or bridge to the tooth, ensuring a snug fit that will withstand the test of time.
The Role of Dental Fillings
Dental fillings are utilized to repair small tooth fractures, tooth decay, or other damaged surfaces of the teeth. In the past, amalgam (a combination of metals) was the popular choice. Nowadays, resin composite and porcelain materials are in the spotlight for their superior aesthetic qualities that blend with the natural tooth color, as well as their adhesive attributes that promote tooth preservation. The filling process involves the removal of the decayed portion of the tooth, cleaning the affected area, and then filling the cleaned-out cavity with the materials of the choice. This not only prevents further decay but also provides a barrier against bacteria.
An Inside Look with Root Canals
Root canals are a more intricate procedure required when the soft inner tissue (pulp) of the tooth becomes inflamed or infected. This can happen for a variety of reasons, including deep decay, a crack or chip in the tooth, or a repeated dental procedure on the tooth. Symptoms may include pain, prolonged sensitivity to heat or cold, and tenderness to touch and chewing. The root canal process involves removing the pulp, cleaning and disinfecting the canals, and then filling and sealing the tooth to prevent further damage. Contrary to popular belief, root canals are not more painful than a typical dental filling and are an incredibly valuable tool in preserving one's natural smile.
Whether it's a simple filling or a complex root canal, each facet of restorative dentistry is a testament to human innovation in the pursuit of dental perfection. By understanding the role of these dental elements, you can appreciate the meticulous care and precision that goes into each procedure.
Learn more from a dental office near you, like Dental Care Associates.