Restoration Repair: Extending the Life of Dental Restorations
Dental restorations are designed to repair and protect teeth that have been damaged due to decay, injury, or wear. Over time, however, even the best dental work can require maintenance or repair due to normal wear, structural damage, or changes in oral health. This blog post discusses the common types of restoration repairs, when they are needed, and what patients can expect from the process.
Types of Dental Restorations Needing Repair
Dental restorations encompass a variety of treatments including fillings, crowns, bridges, veneers, and dentures. The need for repair can arise from several factors:
- Fillings: Can break down or become loose, often due to further decay or biting forces.
- Crowns: May chip, become detached, or fit poorly over time due to underlying decay or changes in the tooth’s structure.
- Bridges: Require repair if they become loose or if the supporting teeth develop cavities or structural issues.
- Veneers: Can chip or detach, particularly if exposed to excessive force or poor dental hygiene.
- Dentures: May become worn, crack, or require adjustments due to changes in the gum and bone structure.
Digital CT Scan
First our dental radiologist takes a digital 3D CT Scan of your teeth.Professional Consultation
We will discuss your primary issues and your wishes concerning your teeth.Dental Examination
This is followed by a professional examination of the teeth and gums.Complete Treatment Plan
We devise a complete treatment plan for restoring your healthy smile.What is Restoration Repair?
Benefits of Restoration Repair
- Prevents Further Decay and Damage: Timely repairs can prevent decay from spreading under or around the restoration.
- Restores Functionality: Repairing restorations helps restore full functionality of the teeth, allowing for normal eating and speaking.
- Cost-Effective: Repairing an existing restoration is often more cost-effective than replacing it entirely.
- Aesthetic Improvement: Repairs can improve the appearance of restorations that have become stained, chipped, or worn.
The Restoration Repair Process
The repair process will vary depending on the type of restoration and the extent of the damage. Here’s what it generally involves:
- Assessment: The dentist will examine the damaged restoration and surrounding teeth to determine the best course of action. This may include X-rays or digital scans.
- Preparation: The affected area may need to be cleaned or further prepared. For example, old filling material or decay may need to be removed.
- Repair Procedure:
- Fillings: A new filling may be applied if the old one has failed or decay is noted around it.
- Crowns and Bridges: These might be re-cemented if they have come loose, or entirely replaced if they are severely damaged.
- Veneers: Minor chips might be smoothed out, or a new veneer may be made if the original is too damaged.
- Dentures: Adjustments can be made to improve fit, or broken parts can be replaced.
- Finishing Touches: The repaired restoration is polished and adjusted to ensure a proper bite alignment.
Aftercare for Repaired Restorations
- Good Oral Hygiene: Continue to brush twice a day and floss daily. Pay special attention to the area around the repaired restoration.
- Regular Dental Checkups: Regular checkups allow for early detection of issues that could compromise the restoration.
- Avoid Hard Foods: Chewing on hard foods, ice, or other hard objects can damage restorations.
- Wear Protection: If grinding or clenching is a problem, wearing a night guard can help protect both natural teeth and restorations.
When to Seek Repair
It's important to contact your dentist if you notice any discomfort, changes in your bite, or visible damage to a restoration. Early intervention can prevent more extensive problems and repairs in the future.
REQUEST AN APPOINTMENT
Fill out the form and we will contact you during our working hours. Urgent dental care will be provided usually the same day.
CONCLUSION
Restoration repair is a crucial component of maintaining oral health and extending the life of dental work. By addressing repairs promptly and following good oral hygiene practices, patients can ensure their restorations continue to function effectively and look great. If you suspect a restoration might be failing, don’t hesitate to visit your dentist for an assessment.
