Restorative Dentistry in Wilkes-Barre, PA

Is there a gap in your smile that you’d like to fill? Are your teeth broken, damaged, or decayed? If so, you may benefit from restorative dentistry. According to the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research, nearly 90% of adults ages 20 to 64 years have had decay in their teeth.

Restorative dentistry, which includes prosthodontic dentistry, aims to repair or replace your teeth to improve the function of your bite and overall oral health.

The difference between restorative dentistry and cosmetic dentistry is the treatment focus. Cosmetic dentistry focuses on improving the appearance of your smile and includes treatments like whitening, veneers, and dental bonding. Restorative dentistry, on the other hand, is more concerned with the function of your teeth. However, many restorations provide not just enhanced function but also aesthetic appeal.

Read on to learn about the importance of restorative dentistry and the different treatments we offer at Mint Mini Dental Implants.

The Importance of Restorative Dentistry

Tooth damage not only affects your smile but can also impair your speech and threaten your oral health. Promptly filling the spaces in your teeth—whether you have missing teeth, cavities, or other damage—can prevent further complications. Gaps in the teeth create areas where the bacteria that cause plaque can build up. Left untreated, plague will destroy the enamel on your teeth, leading to decay and even gum disease.

You may think that a missing tooth isn’t a cause for concern if it’s not visible, but no matter where it is located, a missing tooth can compromise your oral health in several ways:

  • There is added stress on your remaining teeth when chewing.
  • Your teeth will naturally shift to fill in the gap, but this undermines the function of the arch and leads to bite imbalance.
  • Your jawbone deteriorates over time when there is no tooth to stimulate it. As a result, your face may change in appearance, and your gums may begin to recede.
  • You risk changes in the tooth above or below the missing tooth, creating a super-erupted tooth. This occurs when the opposing tooth grows out toward the gap because there is no longer a tooth to resist and stabilize it.

Examples of Restorative Dentistry

The goal of restorative dentistry is to preserve your natural teeth whenever possible. In some cases, your tooth can be repaired, while in others, you may need to have your tooth replaced.

Fillings

A cavity is a hole in the enamel of your tooth. Cavities are caused by acid created when bacteria in your mouth come into contact with sugary snacks and drinks. If a cavity is small enough, we can repair the hole with a dental filling. This is one of the most common types of restorations. At your appointment, we will remove the decayed tissue and fill the hole with a composite material to prevent further decay.

Crowns

When a cavity is too large for a filling or if a tooth is cracked or worn down, a crown might be used instead. A crown is a cap that goes over the visible part of your tooth to restore its function. At your first appointment, we will shape your tooth, removing enamel or adding material as needed. We’ll take impressions of your teeth and fit you with a temporary crown. When you come back for your second appointment, we’ll fit and bond your custom-made crown to your tooth.

Bridges

Dental bridges are used to replace a single tooth or a row of missing teeth. A traditional bridge is a set of teeth with crowns on each end and an artificial tooth (or teeth) in the middle. The artificial tooth fills the gap left by your missing tooth, and the crowns attach to the natural teeth surrounding the gap. At Mint Mini Dental Bridges, we can use mini dental implants to add support to your bridge and prevent bone loss from occurring.

Dentures

Dentures are used for significant tooth loss. We use a full denture to replace an entire upper or lower arch of teeth and a partial denture to replace several missing teeth in different areas. Both full and partial dentures rest on your gums and can be removed. However, at Mint Mini Dental Implants, we provide implant dentures. With this option, mini dental implants anchor the denture and provide a permanent solution to missing teeth. Once we place the implants, the dentures simply snap on. Implant dentures are the preferred option for patients frustrated with loose dentures or looking for a long-lasting and permanent fix for tooth loss.

Mini Dental Implants

Mini dental implants have revolutionized dentistry, allowing us to replace a single tooth, multiple teeth, or all of your teeth in one visit. The implant is made of a metal screw that is anchored into your jawbone and attaches to the dental prosthetic (crown, bridge, or denture). Compared to traditional alternatives, mini implants are smaller and simpler in design, allowing for a minimally invasive placement procedure that takes just one day to complete. Our patients appreciate the high-quality and immediate results of mini implants. You’ll be able to resume your normal activities in just 24-48 hours. Not only are mini implants incredibly durable and long-lasting, but they also support bone health by stimulating your jawbone. If you want a permanent solution to your missing teeth, mini dental implants are an excellent option.

How Long Does Recovery Take?

Your recovery time will depend on the extent of teeth requiring treatment, your restoration procedure, and your personal response to treatment. At your consultation, we will discuss what you can expect from your personalized treatment plan, including recovery timelines and aftercare guidelines.

Is Restorative Dentistry Affordable?

We know that affordability is an important consideration when making decisions about your dental care. Because there are many different kinds of dental restorations and each patient has unique needs, there is no fixed price for dental restorations. The cost of your treatment is based on the number of teeth we need to treat, the materials used, and the treatment option you choose. At your consultation, we’ll discuss the costs upfront so you can budget accordingly. We also offer flexible financing options by partnering with three dental financing companies: Ally, Lending Club, and Care Credit. Many plans offer 0% introductory rates and allow you to spread out your payments to help make your dental care fit your budget.

Restorative Dentistry with John Coolican, DMD, FASGD

At Mint Mini Dental Implants in Wilkes-Barre, PA, we are committed to helping you achieve a beautiful and functional smile by providing restorative dentistry in a compassionate and welcoming atmosphere. Whether you or someone you love needs to fill a cavity or replace missing teeth with bridges, dentures, or mini implants, we have treatment options that suit your needs and fit your budget. As a highly experienced and passionate dentist, Dr. Coolican has the knowledge and skill to transform your smile. Don’t let dental problems hold you back. Schedule your free consultation today.