Date

07/28/2023

Whether you have a single cavity that needs a filling, an infected tooth that requires root canal treatment or you want to replace several missing teeth, you can benefit from restorative dentistry. At McLean DDS, we have worked with many patients to help them achieve healthy, beautiful smiles through restorative dental work. However, many of our patients have questions about their restorative options and how they can restore their smile. Here are answers to some of our most asked questions about restorative dentistry.

What Does Restorative Dentistry Include?

Restorative dentistry includes one or more treatments to repair or replace damaged or missing teeth. The main goal is to restore teeth function and appearance while making sure you smile with confidence once again. Common types of restorative dentistry include:

  • Fillings
  • Root canal procedures
  • Dental crowns
  • Dental implants
  • Dental bridges
  • Full or partial dentures

How Is Restorative Dentistry Different From Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry focuses on aesthetics while restorative dentistry is primarily about function and restoration. The main goal of cosmetic dentistry is to make a patient’s existing smile more visually appealing. Restorative dentistry is focused on repairing and replacing damaged or missing teeth and their supporting structures so that patients can regain full oral function.

Dentists recommend restorative dentistry treatments in cases of damaged, chipped, crooked or missing teeth. Treatments may range from fillings and crowns to implants, bridges, dentures and root canal therapy

I Am Missing One or More Teeth. What Are My Options for Replacing Them?

If you are missing one or multiple teeth, it is important that you seek treatment to prevent more serious issues. Adjacent teeth can shift into the gap left by a lost tooth. A missing tooth could also lead to bone loss, hygiene problems, and difficulties with speaking or eating.

There are many options available for replacing a missing tooth. During an appointment with McLean DDS, your dentist will examine your smile, discuss your treatment goals and review your treatment options. Based on your oral health needs and preferences for treatment, we will design a customized treatment plan to restore your healthy smile.

Some of the tooth replacement options we may discuss include:

  • Dental implants
  • Dental bridges
  • Complete or partial dentures

Why Should I Have Restorative Work Done Instead of Having the Tooth Pulled?

In most cases, it is usually better for your long-term oral health and function to preserve your natural teeth. Typically, your dentist will only recommend tooth extraction if it is causing damage to your other teeth and oral health. By restoring your natural teeth through restorative dentistry, you can keep your natural smile longer without the need for more extensive and costly treatments.

Restore Your Smile Today

Are you interested in restorative dentistry?  If you have more questions about how restorative dental work can improve your smile, call (703) 734-2750 to schedule an appointment with McLean DDS today.

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