Missing teeth, worn and broken teeth, jaw pain, and gum infections change the health and effectiveness of the bite. These painful dental problems can develop quickly, so it is important to receive dental care as soon as possible. Minor oral health issues can develop into more complex problems that will require costly and invasive treatments to restore.
At Waterford Family and Cosmetic Dentistry, we provide restorative dentistry services to patients in Leland, NC to keep your teeth functional and smile healthy. Dawson dentist Dr. Rawley Fuller and Dr. Mason Taylor offer effective and thorough treatment plans to revitalize the function, health, and look of patient’s smiles. Our dentists also provide additional dental services to patients in Leland, North Carolina.
Restorative Dental Care in Leland, NC
Restorative dentistry helps reverse the damage done by gum disease, TMJ disorders, and missing teeth. Dental concerns such as these get worse the longer they are left untreated. Using a patient-focused approach, our dentists can better pinpoint the cause of the problem and find the right solution. Learn more about our restorative treatments below.
Dental Bridge
Dental bridges are a great option for patients with multiple missing teeth. Bridges are dental prosthetics that can restore consecutive missing teeth. They can be removable or fixed in the mouth with the support of dental crowns.
Dental Crown
Porcelain ceramic dental crowns fully cover fractured, chipped, or stained teeth like a cap. Dental crowns not only look like natural teeth but provide stability and strength to the tooth structure.
TMJ Treatment
TMJ disorders create bite problems, including teeth clenching and grinding (bruxism), toothaches, headaches, and jaw pain. Oral appliance therapy can treat jaw pain, headaches, and bruxism. These night guards keep the teeth from grinding together and release pressure from the jaw. If you would like information on how we treat TMJ disorders, please visit TMJ treatments.
Gum Disease Treatment
Periodontitis, or gum disease, occurs when bacteria build up, forming plaque that irritates the gums. As gum inflammation, or gingivitis, progresses, it can lead to receding gums and even tooth loss. Our surgical and non-surgical periodontal treatments remove bacteria and plaque while restoring tissue and bone. For more information on how we diagnose and treat gum disease, please visit Periodontal disease treatment.
Dentures and Partials
Dentures and partials are custom-made replacements for missing teeth. They help restore a patient’s smile’s function and aesthetics. Dentists use full dentures when all natural teeth are missing. Partials, on the other hand, fill the gaps when some natural teeth remain. These solutions enhance chewing and speaking abilities and support the facial structure.
Restorative Dentistry FAQs
Below, we will answer commonly asked questions we get about restorative dental services in our Leland, NC office.
How can I prevent gum disease?
The best ways to stop gum disease in its tracks is to:
- Brush and floss twice a day
- Schedule regular dental visits
- Avoid smoking or tobacco products
We recommend that you visit us twice a year for routine cleanings that remove plaque and tartar from your teeth and gums. A dental prophylaxis is one of the best things you can get to prevent gum infection.
Why should I replace missing teeth?
Replacing missing teeth can prevent future decay, improve your speech and bite, and can restore your confidence. First, food debris and plaque buildup can hide behind the gaps in your smile created by missing teeth. This means that you are at an increased risk for gum disease or tooth decay development if you are missing teeth.
Additionally, missing teeth can make it more difficult for your smile to perform daily tasks like chewing or speaking. If you have gaps in your smile, especially gaps at the front of your mouth, you can feel self-conscious about smiling. Restoring a full smile can boost your confidence and mouth function.
Can food get under a dental bridge?
Yes, food can sometimes get trapped under a dental bridge. Because the bridge spans over your gums, particles can accumulate in a small space. Using special floss threaders or interdental brushes helps clean these areas and prevent issues like bad breath or gum irritation.
What is the best anti-inflammatory for TMJ?
Over-the-counter anti-inflammatories like ibuprofen are often effective for TMJ discomfort. They help reduce inflammation and relieve pain in the jaw joint. However, it’s important to consult your dentist or doctor to determine the best treatment plan for your specific situation.
When is it too late to reverse gum disease?
It’s too late to reverse gum disease when it progresses to advanced periodontitis. At this stage, the damage to the gums and bone is irreversible. You may be able to reverse the early stages of gum disease (gingivitis) with proper oral hygiene and professional cleanings, but advanced gum disease requires more intensive treatments to manage.
Is a dental filling considered restorative?
Dental fillings can be considered restorative because they repair tooth damage. To prepare a tooth for a filling, we remove the decayed area. Then we fill it with a strong material to stop the decay from spreading and preserve your natural tooth.
Find the Right Dental Restoration with a Consultation
Do you have missing, damaged, or infected teeth? Restore the look and feel of your natural smile with restorative dental care in Leland, NC.
Feel free to schedule an appointment with our dental team online or call our Waterford dental office at 910-519-1624.