Restorative dental treatments are needed when a tooth has sustained damage, whether through trauma or decay. The type of restorative procedure you need depends on the extent of the damage. Because we use the latest technology and highest-quality products/materials, restorative treatments in Whittier last longer and are more affordable than ever.
Dental decay occurs when bacteria and acids attack the enamel. The decayed portion of the tooth is compromised, meaning it doesn’t have the strength to support the tooth and the bite pressure it sustains.
If the decay isn’t removed, it will spread to the layers beneath the enamel – namely, the dentin and pulp. Once this happens, it’s highly possible you’ll need root canal treatment or an extraction. Your Whittier dentist wants to avoid this eventuality, so they recommend treating a cavity as quickly as possible.
Other reasons why you might need restorative treatments in Whittier include:
If you experience any of these types of traumas (or the trauma that leads to the necessity of root canal treatment), your tooth is structurally unsound. The only way to keep the tooth strong and functioning well – in addition to avoiding further breakdown – is to restore the tooth with something like a dental crown.
Some cosmetic procedures are also classified as restorative treatments. These include dental veneers and composite bonding. We’re going to focus on procedures that are needed to restore tooth structure instead of procedures that are strictly cosmetic.
This is the most common type of restorative procedure. Your Whittier dentist will remove the decay, disinfect the tooth, and place composite bonding material into the tooth. After shaping and light-curing the filling, your tooth will look as good as new.
A dental crown may be necessary in cases of broken teeth or those with cracks.
If a crack is not addressed, it will get progressively deeper. The crack itself can irritate the pulp (nerve tissue), but it can also be a passageway for bacteria to travel straight to the pulp chamber and cause irritation or infection. A crown supports the tooth structure and prevents the crown from progressing.
Broken teeth can change your bite, something that can lead to excess pressure on other teeth, making them susceptible to cracks and fractures. Additionally, a fractured tooth is likely to continue to break down over time due to bite pressure. A crown can support the tooth and even your bite.
A dental bridge consists of two abutment crowns and a pontic – or fake tooth – bonded together. A bridge is used to restore a missing tooth or multiple missing teeth. It requires preparing the two adjacent teeth for crowns, even if they’re healthy (no decay, cracks, fractures).
Another way to restore a missing tooth is with a dental implant. Your Whittier dentist might recommend an implant because it doesn’t require doing anything to the adjacent teeth and can prevent bone recession.
A dental inlay is a permanent filling made of porcelain and bonded into the tooth. An only is like a short dental crown. It doesn’t cover the whole tooth – just the top of it and a few millimeters of the front, back, and/or sides to restore a tooth that’s damaged with deep decay or a mild to moderate fracture.
The cost of restorative treatments depends on the type of treatment you need. For instance, a filling can cost a couple of hundred dollars, while a crown can cost a few thousand (especially if you need root canal treatment, too).
Dental insurance companies tend to cover restorative procedures at 50% to 80% depending on the procedure. Fillings tend to fall into the 80% category, while crowns are typically covered at 50%.
However, how much your insurance pays depends on the company, your particular plan, and your annual maximum. Talk to our team to learn more about your coverage, as well as payment options.
Your Whittier dentist and their team are committed to providing you with the very best dental care in Southern California. That’s why our team stays up to date on the latest products, materials, techniques, tools, and dental technology through continuing education classes, workshops, and conventions. When you invest in restorative treatments in Whittier, you can feel confident knowing that you’re getting exceptional dental care.
Restore Your Oral Health With Top-Quality Dental Restorations In Whittier
Interested in learning more about our dental restoration options? Contact our team today to schedule an examination and consultation.
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