Restorative dentistry can rehabilitate your smile. Our restorative dental treatment can repair or replace damaged or lost teeth. If you have severe tooth decay or damaged teeth, or if you have experienced a traumatic accident that has affected your teeth, you need restorative dentistry services in our Longview, TX office.
Restorations take many forms, and we offer a full range of dental services to repair tooth damage and replace missing teeth. Restoring your smile will have many benefits for oral health and quality of life.
What is Restorative Dentistry?
Restorative dentistry is a branch of dental care that focuses on restoring the health, function, and appearance of your teeth. It’s like giving your teeth a second chance to shine! If you have damaged, decayed, or missing teeth, restorative dentistry can bring back your beautiful smile and make it easier to chew and speak.
At Longview Family Dental, our team has the experience to provide complete restorative dental treatment. Our dentists will fully examine your smile with digital X-rays and take images to plan restorative care.
When Do I Need Restorative Dental Care?
We often recommend restorative care for a variety of dental problems that affect mouth function, comfort, and appearance. If you have missing teeth, tooth damage, and bite disorders you likely need restorative care.
In some cases, you can prevent the need for restorative care if you:
- Brush and floss every day
- Visit the dentist every six months
- Wear a custom mouthguard during contact sports
However, if you encounter a dental issue that needs restorative care, you can contact our office for a consultation. We will help you find the right restorative treatment to meet your dental needs and goals.
Restorative Dentistry in Longview, TX
We can improve your oral health and bite function with restorative care. Our restorative dental treatments include:
Dental Implants
If you have a lost tooth or need a tooth removed, dental implants offer the best possible treatment for restoring natural function and aesthetics. An implant is a titanium metal post we place to support false teeth. We use implants to secure single crowns, bridges, or dentures. Implants help tooth replacements last because they replace missing teeth at the roots.
Dental Crowns
A dental crown will completely cover and protect a broken or worn-down tooth from further damage. Crowns mimic the look and feel of natural teeth and are most often solutions for severe cavities. However, tooth crowns can also cover large fillings, secure a dental bridge, or cover a single implant.
Dental Bridge
A dental bridge is a restoration that can “bridge” a gap between teeth. The bridgework is a series of prosthetic teeth linked together and supported by an anchor on either side of the gap. The anchor that is supported on each side is by a natural tooth strengthened by a dental crown or a dental implant. We often recommend bridges supported by implants. That way, we don’t need to prepare natural and healthy teeth for crowns.
Dentures
Removable dentures are the traditional option for patients with many missing teeth. However, if you need to replace a full arch of teeth, implant dentures can provide a stable and natural-looking treatment option. As with other restorations, implants help dentures last longer. Implants also replace missing teeth at the root to prevent dentures from slipping.
TMJ Treatment
If you have a TMJ disorder, you can experience teeth clenching and grinding, headaches, and jaw tenderness. Our office provides TMJ treatment to relieve these symptoms.
We can provide custom TMJ nightguards to stop nightly bruxism. Our office may also recommend Invisalign. For some patients, treating problems like crooked teeth can reduce TMJ symptoms.
Periodontal Disease Treatment
Gum disease is a common but damaging dental problem. It begins with irritated and bleeding gums. Over time, gum disease can lead to gum recession or tooth loss. Luckily, our dental office can help. We provide Periodontal disease treatment to remove harmful bacteria from the gum tissue.
Our office provides scaling and root planing to clean the gums and tooth roots. We can also use dental lasers to remove infected gum tissue.
What is a Full Mouth Restoration?
Also known as full mouth rehabilitation, we can use multiple restorative dentistry services to renew your mouth’s form and function. We recommend a full mouth restoration if you have these problems:
- Missing teeth
- Chipped or cracked teeth
- Tooth wear
- Bite problems
To begin the treatment process, you will first visit us for an exam and consultation. We will take digital X-rays of your mouth to see your teeth, gums, and jaw. From these images and your current concerns, we will create a custom treatment plan.
This plan will include the cost of your treatment. Most dental insurance will cover part of restorative dentistry care. Our dental office also accepts CareCredit and Alphaeon. These companies offer financing options for your dental treatment.
Because a full mouth restoration includes multiple treatments, it may take months to complete. You may also need time to heal after each procedure. However, you will have fully functioning teeth, gums, and jaw after your treatment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are dental implants a good option if I’ve had bone loss in my jaw?
Yes, but it depends on how much bone loss you’ve had. If there isn’t enough bone to support the implant, your dentist may recommend a bone graft first to rebuild the area. Once the bone is strong and healthy, implants can be placed successfully. A full evaluation with X-rays or 3D scans will help determine the best treatment plan.
How long does it typically take to get a dental crown from start to finish?
For traditional crowns, the process usually takes two visits over 2 to 3 weeks. The first visit involves preparing the tooth, taking impressions, and placing a temporary crown. The next visit is to fit and cement the permanent crown. Some offices offer same-day crowns using digital scans and in-office milling, which can be completed in just one visit.
Can I replace old dentures with dental implants later on?
Yes, many people switch from dentures to implants for better stability and comfort. Your dentist will check your bone health to see if implants can be placed directly or if a bone graft is needed first. Implant-supported dentures offer a more secure fit and improved chewing function. This transition can often be done in stages, depending on your needs.
How often do dentures need to be relined or adjusted?
Most dentures need to be relined or adjusted every 1 to 2 years. As your jawbone and gums change over time, the fit can loosen, leading to discomfort or sores. Regular checkups help ensure your dentures still fit well and function properly. If you notice slipping or irritation, don’t wait. Contact our office for a proper fit.
Will a full mouth restoration change the way I speak or chew?
Yes, but in a positive way. Once you adjust to your new teeth, you’ll likely speak more clearly and chew more comfortably. If you’ve been compensating for missing or damaged teeth, a full restoration can restore proper bite and function. Any changes during the adjustment period are usually temporary.
Can TMJ symptoms get worse if I delay treatment?
Yes, untreated TMJ issues can gradually worsen over time. You might develop more frequent jaw pain, headaches, or even damage to your teeth from clenching or grinding. The earlier you address it, the easier it is to manage symptoms and prevent joint damage. Early treatment can also reduce the need for more complex interventions later on.
Restore Your Oral Health
Renew the full function and comfort of your teeth and gums with restorative care. Call Longview Family Dental for restorative dentistry services in Longview, TX, at 903-759-0765. You can also schedule a dental appointment with us online.
If you have questions about restorative care, let us know at your next visit. We’re here to help you.