RESTORATIVE DENTISTRY
IN PHILADELPHIA, PA

Restorative dentistry refers to any procedure that repairs or replaces damaged teeth. It can involve fillings, bridges, crowns, dentures, root canal therapy, and more. At Rittenhouse Dental Group, usually, restorative practices are recommended when a patient suffers from decay, disease, or trauma to their teeth. These situations can compromise the health and strength of the tooth.

For example, a tooth with severe decay may require a filling to remove the infected area and prevent further damage. A crown can then be placed over the filled tooth to strengthen and restore it to normal function. Another example may be if an individual loses a tooth due to injury or extraction. They may need a bridge or denture to restore their smile and ability to eat and speak properly.

Dental Crowns and Bridges

A dental crown is a cap placed over the entire tooth to restore strength and improve appearance. The crown is custom-made in a dental laboratory to perfectly match your surrounding teeth. They are made of either porcelain or ceramic and are colored to look like the rest of your natural teeth.

Bridges are used to replace a tooth or multiple teeth in a row. The bridge will anchor to healthy teeth and use filler to fill the gap where the bridge will go. Ideally, bridges are only used if the adjacent teeth are also damaged or decayed because if they aren’t, the teeth adjacent to the bridge can begin to shift into the open space.

Dental Fillings

Dental fillings are the most common restorative dentistry procedure to restore a tooth. This treatment is straightforward and can be completed with a visit to the dentist’s office. The first step involves removing any decay from the tooth. Once that is complete, the cavity is filled in with a composite resin material. The dentist will shape and polish the filling to blend with the natural tooth structure. The procedure is painless and quick. However, patients may experience some discomfort or sensitivity after treatment.

Dentures

Dentures are removable dental appliances that replace lost teeth and surrounding structures. They are made to resemble your natural teeth closely and can be either full or partial. Complete dentures replace all teeth in your upper or lower jaw, while partial dentures replace only a few missing teeth. Dentures may even improve your smile!

By getting regular dental cleanings and exams along with fluoride treatment and dental sealants, you can help protect your smile and lower your risk for tooth loss due to tooth decay. For the best dental treatment, visit Rittenhouse Dental Group at 255 S. 17TH ST., STE. 2807, Philadelphia 19103, or call 215-546-2311.