What It Is
Restorative dentistry focuses on treating tooth decay or damage by restoring the tooth’s function, appearance, and integrity. Fillings are the most common restorative treatment and are used to fill cavities caused by tooth decay, wear, or trauma.
These treatments are tailored to the specific needs of the tooth and the patient, such as durability, appearance, and cost.
Composite Fillings
What It Is
Composite fillings are tooth-coloured restorations made from a blend of resins, glass, and silica particles. They are used to fill cavities and are designed to match the natural colour of your teeth, making them an excellent choice for visible areas.
How It’s Done
- Decay is removed from the tooth using a drill.
- The tooth is cleaned, and an adhesive bonding agent is applied.
- The composite material is carefully applied in layers.
- A special light is used to harden the material (curing process).
- The filling is shaped, smoothed, and adjusted to fit the tooth.
Why It’s Used
- Aesthetically pleasing: Blends seamlessly with natural teeth.
- Durable: Offers great strength and is long-lasting.
- Versatile: Can be used in front or back teeth for both small and moderate cavities.
- Less tooth removal: Preserves more of the tooth structure compared to traditional fillings.
When It’s Used
- For visible teeth, especially front teeth or areas where aesthetics matter.
- For small to moderate cavities in both adults and children.
- For those who prefer mercury-free restorations (especially important for parents concerned about materials).
Strip Crowns
What It Is
Strip crowns are tooth-coloured crowns specifically designed for front teeth that are severely decayed or damaged. They are composite-based and often used to restore baby (primary) teeth in children when a filling won’t suffice
How It’s Used
- Decay is removed and the tooth is prepared.
- The composite material is placed inside the strip crown.
- The strip crown (a clear shell) is placed over the tooth(with the composite material inside).
- It is then cured to harden on the prepared tooth.
- The clear shell is then peeled off the tooth.
- The crown is then adjusted to accommodate the bite
Why It’s Used
- Ideal for front teeth that are severely decayed, cracked, or worn down.
- Provides a natural look while restoring function.
- Preserves as much tooth structure as possible.
- Often used for children’s baby teeth before they naturally fall out, maintaining proper development of permanent teeth.
Stainless Steel Crowns
What It Is
Stainless steel crowns are durable metal crowns used to restore severely damaged or decayed back teeth (molars). These crowns are prefabricated and are especially common in children’s dentistry due to their strength, ease of placement, and cost-effectiveness.
How It’s Used
- Decay is removed, and the tooth is prepared.
- The stainless steel crown is chosen based on the size and shape of the tooth.
- The crown is trimmed and cemented onto the tooth, covering the entire surface.
Why It’s Used
- For severely decayed back teeth (molars or pre-molars) in children.
- In cases where the tooth has a large filling or extensive damage that needs reinforcement.
- When there is insufficient tooth structure left for a filling or other restorative method.
- Often used on primary teeth to protect them until they naturally fall out.
When It’s Used
- For severely decayed back teeth (molars or pre-molars) in children.
- In cases where the tooth has a large filling or extensive damage that needs reinforcement.
- When there is insufficient tooth structure left for a filling or other restorative method.
- Often used on primary teeth to protect them until they naturally fall out.
