What is Restorative Dentistry?
Restorative dentistry refers to a group of treatments and procedures designed to rehabilitate damaged, decayed or missing teeth. With healthy, strong teeth, you can enjoy optimal chewing and speaking ability, a normal looking smile and more self-confidence.
Modern advances in restorative dentistry enable Dr. Jaime Breziner, Dr. David Vasquez and Dr. Garry Bloch of La Jolla Family Smile Design to restore health and beauty to the teeth quickly, affordably and with minimal or no discomfort. Individuals seeking restorative dentistry treatment in La Jolla and the surrounding San Diego areas trust that our dentists can deliver excellent results and world class patient care.
Restorative Dentistry Treatments
If one or more of your natural teeth are decayed, chipped, cracked, worn, stained or missing, you might be a suitable candidate for restorative dentistry. We offer a wide range of restorative treatments, including the following:
- Dental implants to permanently replace missing teeth
- CEREC dental crowns to encapsulate and add strength to damaged teeth
- Dental bridges to close the gap between two teeth (left by a missing tooth)
- Tooth-colored fillings for teeth damaged by cavities
- Root canal treatment to rehabilitate infected teeth
- Dentures to replace most or all of the teeth
- Full mouth restoration to address multiple oral health problems
Why Choose La Jolla Family Smile Design
One of the wisest ways to ensure the success of your restorative dentistry treatment is to select the right dentist to perform it. There are many reasons why La Jolla restorative dentistry patients continually choose the team at La Jolla Family Smile Design.
First and foremost, we are trustworthy. Some forms of tooth decay and damage stem from not taking proper care of the teeth and ignoring recommended oral hygiene practices. Our dentists are not judgmental and we do not scold patients for past negligence in dental care. Instead, we focus on finding the most effective solution to their unique dental problem(s). We understand that healthy, beautiful teeth are important for self-confidence.
As natural problem-solvers, our dentists have a variety of treatments and techniques at our disposal to address problems affecting the structure and health of the teeth. We believe that patients should have their options laid out clearly and play an active role in the decision-making process about their care. We can explain the differences between dental implants and dental bridges, or discuss the advances of replacing old metal fillings with tooth-colored fillings. We patiently weigh all options.
Restorative Dental Work Timeline
Once a plan of treatment has been determined, each step of treatment is explained carefully and in plain language that is easy to understand. Our dentists are straightforward about what to expect during and after treatment. Our skill and technique allow us to rehabilitate the affected teeth so they are strong, healthy and beautiful. Every effort is taken to make the smile restoration process comfortable, pain-free and stress-free for the patient.
After treatment, we encourage our restorative dentistry patients to see us on a regular basis so we can keep an eye on their progress and overall dental health. We treat our patients with the same respect and compassion that we would a member of our family.
FAQ for Restorative Dental
What are the benefits of restorative dentistry?
Restorative dentistry can provide a number of advantages for many patients, including:
- Improve oral health
- Restore ability to chew
- Alleviate dental pain/toothaches
- Decrease the risk of future dental issues
What issues does restorative dentistry address?
Restorative dentistry focuses on treating the dental issues that can impact the function and overall health of your teeth. If you have cracked, broken or missing teeth, tooth decay, or otherwise damaged teeth, restorative dentistry can be an ideal solution.
I just lost a tooth. What are my options?
Losing a tooth can be an overwhelming experience and can make you feel concerned about your appearance and oral health going forward. Luckily, our skilled, compassionate dentists are here to help you regain a great smile with several options, including:
Dental bridge: Bridges are artificial teeth anchored between dental crowns on either side. They are used to replace a single tooth as well as a row of missing teeth.
Dental implants: Implants replace the root of the missing tooth. The implant site needs to heal for 4-6 months and then one of our skilled dentists places a custom-fitted crown which feels and functions just like a natural tooth.
If a tooth has recently been knocked out, it is important that you seek restorative dental care as soon as possible.
What is the cost of my treatment?
The cost of your restorative dental treatment depends on several factors, such as the restorative procedure you receive and the severity of the damage to your teeth. Your estimate will follow your restorative dentistry consultation, after one of our top dentists has evaluated your unique circumstances.
How can restorative dentistry help my cavities?
Although cavities are a common issue, they should be taken seriously, as untreated cavities can lead to other dental issues, such as severe pain and infection. The nature of your cavity will determine the treatment you receive. Many treatments may be used to restore your tooth after cavity-related damage.
A dental filling may be recommended. This restorative treatment involves the use of tooth-colored materials to fill the space left after the removal of damaged tooth structure.
Crowns may be indicated if it is determined that the tooth is weakened and has insufficient tooth structure for a filling. In this case porcelain crown restoration will add strength and prevent that tooth from breaking.
If damage from your cavity has progressed to reach the pulp of the tooth, a root canal may be indicated.
Tooth extractions are also a solution for cases of severe damage from cavities in which the tooth cannot be saved. Other restorative options can be used after extraction to replace your missing tooth.
Can restorative dentistry be an option for children?
Restorative dentistry can help restore health in patients of all ages, including children. Children’s teeth are susceptible to damage and decay; as such, restorative dental health options can help treat issues, such as cavities, with tooth-colored fillings as well as other types of dental restorations. The caring doctors and staff at La Jolla Family Smile Design go the extra mile to ensure that your little one is comfortable and relaxed during treatment.
Learn More About Your Restorative Dentistry Options
If you are worried the health or appearance of your teeth, and would like to speak to our dentists about your restorative dentistry options, please schedule a consultation at our La Jolla office. Call (858) 454-3044 today to make an appointment.
