Replacing Missing Teeth

Restorative Dentistry, often overlapping with prosthodontic dentistry, aims to preserve natural teeth as much as possible. Replacing missing teeth with dental implants, bridges, or full or partial dentures not only restores function but also promotes dental health. Filling empty spaces prevents cavities in remaining teeth by eliminating gaps where plaque-causing bacteria can accumulate. Moreover, replacing missing teeth reduces stress on natural teeth by providing additional surface area for chewing.

Tooth Restoration Options

When planning restorative dentistry, both physical and financial factors need to be considered. Our goal is to preserve your natural teeth whenever possible, resorting to full or partial dentures only when necessary. This approach minimizes the need for removable devices and ensures the longevity of your dental health. However, for those with multiple missing teeth or other health issues, dentures might be the most viable option.

Marietta Restorative Dentistry

With various options available, dental restoration can repair worn, decayed, damaged, or missing teeth, restoring your smile to its healthy and beautiful state. Depending on your specific needs, your dentist will choose between direct and indirect restorations:

Direct Restorations: Direct tooth restoration involves placing a filling into a prepared tooth cavity immediately, usually in a single office visit. The choice of filling material depends on the type and location of the cavity. For instance, glass or resin ionomers are often used for areas near the tooth root or other locations not subjected to heavy chewing pressure.

Indirect Restorations: Indirect tooth restoration involves custom-made replacements such as crowns, onlays, or inlays. These restorations cover varying parts of the tooth:

  • Crowns cover the entire chewing surface.
  • Inlays lie within the cusps of the tooth.
  • Onlays cover one or more cusps, including part of the chewing surface.

Indirect restorations require multiple office visits, as they need to be fabricated in a lab. While gold is still used for some inlays, porcelain and tooth-colored composite resins are popular choices for those seeking a natural look.

At Cobb Center for Advanced Dentistry, we are committed to providing comprehensive restorative dental services tailored to your needs. Contact us today to learn more about how our Restorative Dentistry options can help you achieve a healthy, functional, and beautiful smile in Marietta.