The 4 Common Types of Dental Restorations

When it comes to our oral health, we often think about brushing and flossing our teeth regularly. However, there are other aspects of oral health that are important as well, such as dental restorations. Restorative dentistry is the process of repairing and restoring teeth that have been damaged or lost. This can be done through a variety of methods, including dental implants, dentures, and crowns.

There are many reasons why someone might need restorative dentistry. Teeth can become damaged due to a number of factors, such as decay, infection, or trauma. They can also be lost due to injury or gum disease. 

Dental restorations can also help improve oral health overall. Damaged or missing teeth can put strain on the rest of the teeth, which can lead to further damage. Dental restoration can help restore balance to the mouth and protect against further damage.

There are four common types of dental restorations: dental implants, dentures, crowns, and bridges. Let’s take a closer look at each one.

1. Dental Implants

Dental implants are artificial roots that are placed into the jawbone to support a dental prosthetic. They are made of titanium, which is a biocompatible material that fuses with the bone over time. This helps to create a strong and stable foundation for the dental prosthetic. Dental implants can be used to support a single tooth, multiple teeth, or even an entire arch of teeth.

2. Dentures

Dentures are removable dental prosthetics that replace missing teeth. They are custom-made to fit snugly over the gums. Dentures can be full or partial, depending on how many teeth are missing. They are typically made of acrylic or can have a metal base with acrylic over it.

3. Crowns

Crowns are dental prosthetics that cover the entire surface of a tooth. They are used to restore the function and appearance of a tooth that has been damaged or lost. Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including ceramic, porcelain, metal, or composite resin.

4. Bridges

Bridges are dental prosthetics that replace one or more missing teeth. They consist of artificial teeth (called pontics) that are supported by dental crowns. The dental crowns are placed over the natural teeth adjacent to the space created by the missing tooth (or teeth). Bridges can be made from a variety of materials, including ceramic, porcelain, or metal.

Dental restoration can help to improve the function and appearance of your teeth. It is important to discuss your options with a dental professional to find the best solution for you.

Dr. Richard D. Sellen is a licensed dentist in Willow Glen, San Jose, California. If you are ready for a healthy and beautiful smile, head on over to our contact page or give us a call at 408.264.3133