Restorative Dentistry Serving Cincinnati, OH
Restorative dentistry spans a wide range of procedures focused on the functionality and health of your mouth — from deep cleaning for gum disease to root canals, porcelain veneers and dental implants. Depending on the state of your oral health, several restorative procedure may be appropriate to restore the brilliance of your smile, and the self-confidence that comes with it.
When Restorative Dentistry is Necessary
Restorative dentistry treats root causes — often literally. When you ignore a cracked tooth or cavity, it can have far-reaching effects in your mouth. The nerve may lose its protective covering, exposing it to microbes and the outside environment, and ultimately leading to development of an abscess, an extremely painful condition. Depending on the stage of severity, Dr. Pearce may recommend a crown, root canal or complete extraction for the tooth.
Cosmetic Restoration
The procedures that comprise restorative dentistry are not all focused on emergency situations or chronic conditions. The appearance of unsightly gaps or chips can be improved with dental bonding or veneers. Bonding is a simple procedure that requires no change to your natural tooth and can be reversed at a later date, if desired. Patients undergoing a bonding procedure typically do not even require anesthesia. Porcelain veneers cover imperfections with strong, thin shields that do require a slight grinding-down of tooth enamel to accommodate their thickness. Composite veneers are a less expensive option, but do not last as long.
Endodontic and Periodontal Restoration
For more extreme deterioration in the health and appearance of your mouth, Dr. Pearce will coordinate with additional specialists, as part of your comprehensive restoration plan. Endodontists specialize on the interior of the teeth and perform root canals for the most serious cases of neglect. Periodontists target the most severe cases of gum disease, usually when the pockets between your gum and root of a tooth exceed 6 mm and are putting the integrity of the bone at risk. Orthodontists provide a range of solutions for misaligned teeth, ensuring your smile looks as good as it feels after restorative treatment.
Teeth Replacement Options
If you’ve been unfortunate in waiting too long to address serious dental issues, Dr. Pearce will help you choose the best option for replacing missing teeth. Improved technology and innovative dental techniques have made the process of obtaining dentures, bridges and implants easier, more comfortable and more cost-effective than ever. Choosing among these effective options is important, as ignoring missing teeth can have serious consequences, including misalignment of remaining teeth and loss of volume in the jaw bone.
Consulting with Dr. Pearce about Restorative Dentistry Options
Restorative treatment is both comprehensive and customized. So much of what will be performed is based on not only the state of your oral health, but your own preferences and expectations. That requires close collaboration between you and your dentist, and Dr. Pearce always makes the time to answer every question and suggest possible solutions to each dental issue. Once you are ready to move forward as a team, he will set a timeline for the procedures you have chosen, and begin taking X-rays and other measurements.
To learn more about restorative dentistry, schedule an appointment with experienced southwestern Ohio dentist Dr. Troy Pearce by contacting his Cincinnati office today.