Restorations

Are you hesitant to smile because of a chipped tooth or a gap in your smile? Perhaps you've been avoiding your favorite foods because of tooth sensitivity or discomfort. If these issues sound familiar, it might be time to consider dental restorations. At Gen Z Dentistry, we understand the impact a confident smile can have on your life. Let's explore the world of dental restorations together so you can make an informed decision about your oral health and well-being.

The Benefits of Dental Restorations

Choosing dental restorations at Gen Z Dentistry offers numerous benefits beyond just aesthetics. Restoring your smile can:

• Enhance your smile's aesthetics.
• Address gaps between teeth for a more appealing appearance.
• Correct or improve an improper bite.
• Prevent the potential loss of a tooth.
• Alleviate dental discomfort or pain.
• Restore and strengthen teeth affected by damage or decay.
• Replace missing teeth to regain full dental function and appearance.
• Upgrade outdated or unattractive dental treatments with modern options.
• Ensure normal eating and chewing abilities are restored.

Types of Dental Restorations

Dental restorations encompass a variety of treatments designed to repair and restore the function and appearance of your teeth. Here are some common types:

Fillings

Fillings are a fundamental part of restorative dentistry, used to repair teeth affected by cavities or decay. When tooth decay occurs, it creates small holes or cavities in the tooth enamel. If left untreated, these cavities can grow larger, causing pain and potentially leading to more severe dental problems.

For decades, traditional amalgam fillings were the go-to option for restoring teeth. These fillings, made from a mixture of metals, are durable and long-lasting. However, their silver appearance can be noticeable, especially when placed on the front teeth, affecting the aesthetics of your smile. Enter modern composite fillings – a game-changer in the world of dental restorations. These fillings are made from a tooth-colored resin material that blends seamlessly with your tooth color. The result? A restoration that is virtually indistinguishable from your natural teeth.

Dental Crowns

Dental crowns, also known as caps, are versatile restorations designed to cover a damaged or weakened tooth entirely. They are custom-made to fit your tooth perfectly, providing protection and reinforcement. Crowns can be made from various materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination of these materials.

When Are Crowns Used?

Crowns serve several essential purposes in restorative dentistry:

After Root Canal Treatment: Following a root canal procedure, the tooth may become fragile due to the removal of its inner pulp. A crown is often placed over the treated tooth to restore its strength and protect it from further damage.

Large Fillings: When a tooth has a large filling that compromises its structural integrity, a crown can provide reinforcement and prevent the tooth from fracturing.

Severely Damaged or Decayed Teeth: Teeth that are extensively damaged or decayed may not be effectively restored with fillings alone. Crowns can cover the entire tooth, restoring its appearance, function, and strength.

Cosmetic Enhancement: Crowns can also be used for cosmetic purposes, such as covering severely discolored or misshapen teeth and improving the overall aesthetics of your smile.

Bridges

A dental bridge is a custom-made appliance designed to replace one or more missing teeth. It consists of artificial teeth, known as pontics, that are held in place by crowns on adjacent teeth or dental implants. The pontics fill the gap left by missing teeth, restoring the appearance and function of your smile.

The Benefits of Bridges

Restore Your Smile: One of the most significant advantages of bridges is their ability to restore your smile's appearance. The pontics are carefully crafted to create a harmonious and complete smile.

Prevent Shifting: When a tooth is lost, the surrounding teeth may shift or move out of alignment over time. This can lead to bite problems and further tooth loss. Bridges help prevent this shifting by filling the gap and providing support to neighboring teeth.

Improve Chewing and Speech: Missing teeth can make it challenging to chew certain foods properly and may even affect your speech. Bridges restore the ability to chew comfortably and speak clearly, improving overall oral function.

Maintain Facial Structure: Teeth play a crucial role in supporting facial muscles and structure. When teeth are missing, the face can appear sunken or aged. Bridges help maintain proper facial support, preserving a youthful appearance.

Durable and Long-Lasting: Bridges are made from durable materials that can withstand the forces of daily chewing and biting. With proper care and maintenance, bridges can last for many years, providing a reliable solution for tooth replacement.

Dental Implants

Dental implants are widely regarded as the gold standard for replacing missing teeth. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges that sit on the gum line, implants are surgically placed into the jawbone, where they fuse with the bone to create a sturdy and permanent foundation.

Getting dental implants at Gen Z Dentistry is a multi-step process that involves several appointments. Here's an overview of what you can expect:

Consultation: During your initial consultation, our dental team will evaluate your oral health, discuss your treatment goals, and determine if you are a candidate for dental implants.

Implant Placement: The first step involves surgically placing the implant post into the jawbone. This procedure is performed under local anesthesia to ensure your comfort.

Healing Period: After the implant is placed, a healing period is necessary to allow the implant to fuse with the jawbone. This process, called osseointegration, typically takes a few months.

Abutment Placement: Once the implant has fused with the jawbone, the abutment is attached to the implant. This step prepares the implant for the placement of the final restoration.

Custom Restoration: Finally, a custom-made crown is created to fit onto the abutment. The crown is meticulously designed to match the color and shape of your real teeth, completing your smile.

Veneers

Veneers are custom-made, wafer-thin shells that are designed to cover the front surface of your teeth. They are made from either porcelain or composite resin, both of which offer exceptional durability. Veneers are a versatile cosmetic solution that can address a wide range of dental imperfections, including:

• Chipped or cracked teeth
• Stained or discolored teeth
• Gaps between teeth
• Misaligned or uneven teeth
• Worn down teeth
• Irregularly shaped teeth

Don't wait any longer to transform your smile. Contact Gen Z Dentistry today to schedule your consultation. As your trusted dentist in Glendale, NY, we are here to help you achieve the smile you deserve.