Common Restorative Treatments We Provide
Restorative dentistry encompasses a wide range of solutions, each designed to address specific types of dental damage. The goal remains consistent across all treatments: preserve as much of your natural tooth structure as possible while restoring full function and preventing future problems.
Fillings and Inlays
Dental fillings represent the most straightforward restorative treatment, addressing cavities before they grow large enough to threaten the tooth’s integrity. We use tooth-coloured composite materials that blend seamlessly with your natural enamel, making repairs virtually invisible. The process removes decayed tissue, cleans the affected area thoroughly, and fills the space with durable material that bonds directly to your tooth.
Inlays work similarly but handle larger areas of decay or damage that extend onto the chewing surface. These custom-made restorations fit precisely into the prepared space, offering strength that exceeds standard fillings for more substantial repairs. You’ll need two appointments—one for preparation and impression, another for placement—but the result lasts significantly longer than conventional fillings in high-stress areas.
Crown Restorations
When decay or damage affects a significant portion of your tooth, a crown provides complete coverage that protects what remains while restoring normal shape and function. Dr. Clark and Dr. Santoro recommend crowns for teeth with large fillings that have weakened the surrounding structure, teeth that have undergone root canal treatment, or severely worn teeth that need reinforcement.
The crown process involves reshaping your tooth to create room for the restoration, taking detailed impressions, and placing a custom-crafted crown that matches your natural teeth in colour and contour. Modern dental crowns last 15 to 20 years with proper care, making them one of the most reliable long-term solutions in restorative dentistry.
Replacing Missing Teeth
Gaps in your smile create problems that extend far beyond appearance. Adjacent teeth gradually shift into empty spaces, your bite changes as opposing teeth over-erupt, and bone loss occurs in the jaw where roots no longer stimulate tissue. Addressing missing teeth quickly prevents these cascading complications.
Dental Bridges
Gaps in your smile create problems that extend far beyond appearance. Adjacent teeth gradually shift into empty spaces, your bite changes as opposing teeth over-erupt, and bone loss occurs in the jaw where roots no longer stimulate tissue. Addressing missing teeth quickly prevents these cascading complications.
Dental Implants
Implants represent the gold standard for tooth replacement because they recreate the entire tooth structure, including the root. A titanium post placed into your jawbone fuses with the surrounding tissue over several months, creating a stable foundation for a crown that looks and functions exactly like a natural tooth. This approach preserves jawbone density, doesn’t require altering healthy adjacent teeth, and typically lasts a lifetime with proper care.
Dentures and Partial Dentures
When multiple teeth are missing, full or partial dentures offer a cost-effective restoration option. Modern dentures bear little resemblance to the clunky appliances of past generations—they’re lightweight, natural-looking, and designed for comfort. Partial dentures fill gaps while using your remaining teeth for stability, while full dentures replace an entire arch when no natural teeth remain.
Why Restorative Dentistry Matters for Your Overall Health
Damaged or missing teeth affect more than your smile. Chewing becomes difficult or painful, leading many people to avoid nutritious foods that require thorough chewing. Speech patterns can change, especially when front teeth are missing. Jaw pain and headaches often develop as your bite shifts to compensate for damaged or absent teeth.
Untreated dental decay doesn’t just stay in one spot—it spreads to neighbouring teeth and can lead to infections that affect your entire body. The bacteria from dental abscesses can enter your bloodstream, potentially causing serious health complications. Restorative dentistry stops this progression and eliminates the source of infection.
The Treatment Planning Process
Every restorative case at Scottsdale Cosmetic Dentistry begins with a comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis. Dr. Santoro and Dr. Clark examine the extent of damage, assess the health of surrounding teeth and gums, and consider factors like your bite relationship and jaw function. We’ll discuss your options in detail, explaining the benefits and limitations of each approach so you can make informed decisions about your care.
Some restorative treatments can be completed in a single visit, while others require multiple appointments spread over several weeks or months. We’ll provide a clear timeline and help you understand what to expect at each stage. Complex cases might involve coordination between different types of treatment—for example, addressing gum disease before placing crowns, or extracting a damaged tooth before beginning implant treatment.
Maintaining Your Restored Smile
Restorative work requires the same diligent home care as your natural teeth. Brushing twice daily, flossing consistently, and attending regular checkups keep restorations functioning properly and prevent new problems from developing. Most restorative materials are incredibly durable, but they’re not indestructible—avoiding habits like ice chewing or using your teeth as tools protects your investment.
Don’t let damaged or missing teeth compromise your quality of life. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Clark or Dr. Santoro at Scottsdale Cosmetic Dentistry to explore restorative solutions tailored to your needs and discover how we can rebuild your healthy, confident smile.
