Finding a Good Restorative Dentist

Diet, regular flossing and brushing, and regular dental exams and cleaning are all important to oral health, but sometimes you may need a restorative dentist to get the job done. For many eventually with age, the need for dental treatment reaches beyond the scope of the checkup and into the need for restorative dentistry.

What is A Restorative Dentist?

A restorative dentist uses any treatment designed to keep your mouth healthy and functional. The most common types of tooth restoration are fillings, crowns, and bridges. Additionally, partial and full dentures, as well as dental implants are also considered restorative measures when it comes to dental treatment.

Who Can Perform Restorative Dentistry?

The good news is that any general dentist can perform restorative procedures. While some dentists specialize in certain dentistry fields, your regular dentist can often perform tooth restorations for you.

How Does Restorative Dentistry Compare With Cosmetic Dentistry?

Restorative dentistry is focused on restoring your mouth’s normal function and keeping it healthy. Fillings, for instance, help preserve your natural tooth and bite, while protecting vulnerable areas form additional cavities. Cosmetic dentistry, by contrast, focuses more on aesthetics. Procedures like teeth whitening, veneers, and elective orthodontics to improve the appearance of the teeth to the patient are the focus of cosmetic dentistry, although sometimes the two do overlap in certain cases.

What to Look for in a Restorative Dentist

Although you can often depend on your family dentist to perform restorative procedures, there are certain questions to ask to ensure that you receive the best care and outcome from your procedure. Does the provider or practice:

  • Attempt to preserve your natural teeth as much as possible?
  • Clearly communicate treatment options and prices?
  • Accept your medical or dental insurance?
  • Have extensive experience performing this procedure?
  • Provide desired comfort measures during the procedure?

 

Call the dental practice and ask these or any other questions you have about your procedure or to consult with your dentist during your regular exam. If your family dentist is uncomfortable performing a procedure due to lack of training or experience or due to other medical factors involved in your case, he or she should refer you to a practice specializing in the necessary treatment. Mayo Clinic reminds us that oral health is a “window” into overall health, providing indications of other internal medical issues.

Interested in visiting a restorative dentist? Book an appointment today!

Published: July 19, 2017