The foundation of restorative dentistry is based on the proper management of diseases of the teeth, their supporting and surrounding structures, and the successful rehabilitation of the entire detention for the functional and aesthetic specifications of the individual receiving treatment.
When the workings of a smile are afflicted due to decay, infection, trauma, impacted or misaligned teeth, it can affect appeal, function, and overall quality of life. With the advanced techniques in dental health, treatments such as fillings, root canal therapy, and extractions are all designed to address damage and infection to preserve the healthy integrity of an affected tooth as much as possible.
Below, we will discuss each solution, when they are necessary and what they can do for your smile.
When Are Dental Fillings Necessary?
A dental filling is often a popular and ideal reparative solution for restoring a tooth affected by damage or decay to its optimal function and shape. When your dental professional administers your filling treatment, he or she first removes the decayed tooth material, cleans the affected areas, and then fills the disinfected cavity with a filling material.
By sealing off areas of the tooth where bacteria can enter, a filling also helps prevent further decay. Materials used for fillings include gold, porcelain, a composite resin (tooth-colored fillings), and an amalgam (a blend of mercury, silver, copper, tin and sometimes zinc).
What is the Purpose of Root Canal Therapy?
A tooth’s structure is composed of many levels, the outer protectant enamel, the dentin, and the inner soft tissue, which is full of a network of nerves and blood vessels called the pulp. Root canal therapy is essential when the pulp becomes compromised due to infection. If left untreated, this can lead to serious dental health concerns such as pulp damage or developing an abscess.
Although there is often a negative stigma surrounding this endodontic treatment, the truth is, root canal therapy is designed to save as much of the natural tooth as possible, while alleviating associated pain that comes along with an afflicted tooth. Several reasons why you may require root canal therapy typically include; deep decay, worn dental crown or filling, crack or chip in the tooth.
When is Tooth Extraction a Viable Option?
When an affected tooth has become too damaged, or infection has spread where it is determined unsalvageable by a dental professional, tooth extraction is often an ideal solution for preserving lasting oral health.
Another reason for required tooth extraction is impacted third molars, also known as wisdom teeth, that have erupted. When wisdom teeth are unable to grow into proper alignment with the rest of your smile, they become impacted and cause overcrowding and discomfort due to our mouths not having enough room for these extra teeth. It is highly recommended to have these teeth removed as this typically leads to the development of cavities and can eventually contribute to more severe dental complications for the future.
If you or a loved one are experiencing any form of dental discomfort, it could be a sign you may need restorative therapy. Contact friendly and skilled dentist, Dr. Hsiao Chen today to schedule your initial consultation!