Dental Treatments to Heal and Restore a Damaged Smile

by Dr. Nick Wentworth

Just one missing or damaged tooth can cause you not to love your smile. Fortunately, modern dental care has various treatments that can heal dental conditions and restore your smile…and your confidence.

Tooth-Colored Fillings for Tooth Decay

If you catch tooth decay in its early stages, a filling is often enough to treat the area. Unsightly amalgam or silver fillings used to be the most common filling material. However, dentists today more frequently use tooth-colored filling material. Tooth-colored fillings are the same shade as tooth enamel, providing protection without compromising the look of your teeth.

Crowns for Decayed or Damaged Teeth

Like tooth-colored fillings, dental crowns protect teeth that have suffered from tooth decay. They are also useful for saving badly damaged teeth. For instance, if tooth decay has destroyed much of a tooth's natural crown, a dental crown can restore the lost portion of the tooth. Dental crowns are usually made of ceramic or zirconia, which makes them sturdier and longer lasting than fillings. Dentists can create crowns that look like your own teeth in shape, color, and size.

Dental Bridges for One or More Missing Teeth

Sometimes, several consecutive teeth need treatment at the same time. Fortunately, dental bridges, which consist of one or more crowns and pontics (artificial teeth), are an option that attach to a natural tooth with the help of a dental crown acting as an anchor. This provides stability for the pontic teeth while you chew your food. If you have a row of missing teeth, a dental bridge can be an aesthetic and reliable way to replace those teeth.

Dentures for Missing or Damaged Teeth

One of the most economical options for replacing missing or damaged teeth is a denture. Modern dentures are much more attractive than the dentures of old, which were easy to notice. Dentures are often a better option than keeping badly damaged teeth, which can cause discomfort and affect the quality of your smile. Some patients opt to use a denture while they save up for a dental bridge or dental implants.

Dental Implants for Missing or Badly Damaged Teeth

Dental implants are often the best option for replacing heavily decayed or missing teeth. They have both a root and a crown, just as natural teeth do. The implant is a post placed in the jawbone that integrates with your natural bone. This provides a strong foundation for fixed or removable replacement teeth to attach to and gives you a natural look.

If the function and appearance of your teeth has suffered due to decay or damage, a skilled and experienced dentist can help. Ask them for the best options for you to love your smile again!