Reconstructive Dentistry in Lodi and Stockton
Get the smile you always wanted. It is never too late to restore your teeth.
Learn about our reconstructive treatments.
Restorative dentistry is any dental procedure that restores a missing tooth or restores a damaged tooth to full health and function. Generally, saving a tooth is the goal, with extraction being a last resort. Though the patient’s desires are a primary consideration, it is usually advisable to attempt to save a tooth if at all possible because there is nothing superior to natural teeth.
When a tooth is decayed, broken, or damaged so that the root remains intact and healthy, the most common method of treatment is restoration with a crown. Cosmetically this is sometimes called a cap, but a dental crown can provide a full functioning and healthy tooth when a damaged tooth is at risk for further decay or complete loss. Unlike a cosmetic veneer, which only attaches to the surface of the tooth to change its appearances and cannot provide strength and function, a crown covers the tooth completely and is strong enough to return full function to a tooth that has been weakened by damage or decay. Dental crowns are usually composed of a mixture of dental materials but can be made of porcelain. Porcelain is the most natural-looking material for dental work because it has light-reflecting properties similar to that of natural teeth.
A tooth that has decay below the surface and near the root can be saved with endodontic therapy, also known as root canal. Root canal is no longer a painful experience like it was in the past, in fact today, most people who have undergone root canal say it is quite comfortable. During a root canal procedure, a small hole is made in the tooth and special dental instruments clean out the pulp or center of the tooth. The area is then sanitized and filled with dental material that replaces diseased tissue. The hole in the tooth is filled or the tooth may require a crown.
When a tooth cannot be saved, it can be extracted and replaced. It is wise to replace any missing tooth, even if it is in the back of the mouth. A single missing tooth can undermine the foundation of your dentition and cause your other teeth to slowly begin to shift. In addition, missing teeth make chewing difficult, and the open spaces can interfere with proper brushing and flossing. Missing teeth can be replaced with dentures, partials, bridges or dental implants.
At Smiles Depot in Lodi, California, Dr. Nokrashy and our staff provide complete dental restoration services. We put our patients first and provide a warm and caring environment for your dental service needs. Call us now at 209-224-5348 to set up an appointment for a consultation or an exam.