Restoration dentistry is not just about aesthetics – it’s about ensuring optimal oral health and functionality. Dental restorations play a vital role in achieving this goal, addressing issues ranging from decay and damage to misalignment. 

At Thomas F. Brown, DDS, we specialize in personalized dental restorations. If you’d like to learn more about your reparative options, contact our team in Naperville, IL, at (630) 369-3120 for more information. 

Now, let’s delve into some of the most common types of dental restorations and how they contribute to maintaining healthy smiles.

Fillings

Dental professionals use fillings to repair minor to moderate damage caused by injuries or cavities. Fillings work by restoring the integrity and structure of the affected tooth while preventing further decay or damage. 

Fillings come in various materials, such as: 

  • Metal amalgams (a blend of metals) 
  • Composite resin (a tooth-colored material)
  • Glass ionomer (a type of cement)

While modern composite fillings offer the advantage of mimicking the natural appearance of teeth, metal and glass ionomer fillings may be more affordable. Ask our dentist in Naperville which type of filling is best for you.

Crowns

When a tooth sustains extensive damage or becomes extremely weak, dentists may recommend a dental crown. Crowns are tailor-made caps that cover the entire upper portion of a tooth. This means that they can provide unparalleled strength and protection while also restoring the tooth’s shape and size. 

Dentists can create these protective coverings from sturdy materials, such as:

  • Porcelain
  • Ceramic
  • Metal alloys

Bridges

Dental bridges serve as a fixed solution for replacing a few missing teeth by bridging the gap between neighboring teeth. These dental restorations consist of false teeth (called pontics) anchored in place by crowns placed on the adjoining natural teeth or dental implants. 

Bridges not only restore the functionality of chewing and speaking but also prevent the surrounding teeth from shifting out of alignment. This helps maintain proper bite alignment and facial structure.

Dental Implants

In the world of restorative dentistry, dental implants are the gold standard for replacing missing teeth. These artificial tooth roots offer a permanent and natural-looking solution to address tooth loss.

Implants are titanium posts that a trained professional must surgically insert into the jawbone. Once fully integrated with the jawbone, implants serve as sturdy foundations for attaching lifelike prosthetic teeth, including crowns, bridges, and full dentures.

Dentures

Dentures are a type of oral prosthesis that closely imitate natural teeth. For patients missing entire dental arches or several teeth throughout the mouth, dentures provide a removable option for restoring oral aesthetics and functionality.

They come in two types: complete dentures (which take the place of all teeth in one or both arches) and partial dentures (which take the place of only some teeth and are supported by remaining natural teeth or dental implants). 

Personalized Dental Restorations in Naperville, IL

Dental restorations encompass a diverse range of procedures aimed at repairing, replacing, or enhancing teeth affected by decay, damage, or loss. These interventions are crucial not only for preserving oral health but also for boosting confidence and overall well-being. If your smile could benefit from reparative treatments, contact Thomas F. Brown, DDS, today

Reserve an appointment online here or at (630) 369-3120.