Restorative dentistry is a specialized field of dentistry that involves restoring the function and aesthetics of teeth that have been damaged due to decay, trauma, or wear and tear. The most common restorative dental procedures include fillings, crowns, and bridges. While these procedures may seem simple, it’s essential to understand the importance of seeking the assistance of a professional rather than attempting to perform them yourself. Learn more
Fillings
Fillings are one of the most common restorative dental procedures. They are used to fill cavities caused by decay and restore the natural shape and function of the tooth. Fillings can be made from a variety of materials, including composite resin, porcelain, or amalgam.
While some people may attempt to perform their own fillings using over-the-counter dental filling kits, this is not recommended. These kits may seem like a more affordable option, but they are often difficult to use and can lead to further damage to the tooth. Additionally, the materials used in these kits are often of lower quality than those used by dental professionals, which can lead to a shorter lifespan for the filling. Explore more
Instead, it’s important to seek the assistance of a professional dentist to perform fillings. A dentist will use high-quality materials and have the training and expertise necessary to ensure that the filling is placed correctly and that the tooth is restored to its proper function.
Crowns
Crowns are another common restorative dental procedure. They are used to restore the shape and function of a tooth that has been severely damaged or decayed. A crown is essentially a cap that is placed over the tooth to protect it and restore its appearance.
Similar to fillings, some people may attempt to place their own crowns using over-the-counter dental crown kits. However, this is not recommended. These kits are often difficult to use and can lead to further damage to the tooth or surrounding teeth. Additionally, they are often made of lower-quality materials that can lead to a shorter lifespan for the crown.
Instead, it’s essential to seek the assistance of a professional dentist to perform a crown procedure. A dentist will use high-quality materials and have the necessary training and expertise to ensure that the crown is placed correctly and that the tooth is restored to its proper function. They will also ensure that the crown fits properly and does not cause discomfort or further damage to the tooth.
Bridges
Bridges are used to replace missing teeth. They consist of two or more crowns that are attached to the teeth on either side of the gap, with a false tooth (or teeth) in between. Bridges are often used as an alternative to dentures or dental implants.
While some people may attempt to create their own bridges using over-the-counter dental bridge kits, this is not recommended. These kits are often difficult to use and can lead to further damage to the surrounding teeth. Additionally, they are often made of lower-quality materials that can lead to a shorter lifespan for the bridge.
Instead, it’s important to seek the assistance of a professional dentist to perform a bridge procedure. A dentist will use high-quality materials and have the necessary training and expertise to ensure that the bridge is placed correctly and that the surrounding teeth are not damaged. They will also ensure that the bridge fits properly and does not cause discomfort or further damage to the surrounding teeth.
Conclusion
Restorative dentistry procedures such as fillings, crowns, and bridges are essential for restoring the function and aesthetics of damaged or missing teeth. While it may be tempting to attempt these procedures yourself using over-the-counter dental kits, it’s important to understand the risks involved. These kits are often difficult to use and can lead to further damage to the teeth or surrounding teeth. Additionally, the materials used in these kits are often of lower quality than those used by dental professionals, which can lead to a shorter lifespan for the restoration.
