Our Nanaimo dental clinic offers a range of restorative dental services including crowns, bridges, fillings and root canals.
Restorative dentistry is one of the most rewarding aspects of our practice. Through a variety of procedures, restorative dentistry is designed to restore the function, strength, and appearance of teeth that may be damaged, decayed, or worn, empowering clients to enjoy an improved quality of life. Each of these treatments not only improves the look of a patient’s smile but also enhances their ability to bite, chew, and speak comfortably. Restorative dentistry helps patients regain their confidence and enjoy a healthier, more functional smile. We are dedicated to ensuring every patient leaves our Nanaimo dental clinic with a smile, and restorative dentistry can help with just that.
What is restorative dentistry?
Restorative dentistry focuses on repairing and restoring teeth affected by damage, decay, or trauma. It includes a variety of procedures aimed at restoring the function, structure, and appearance of teeth. Common treatments involve dental fillings to address cavities, crowns to cover and protect weakened teeth, bridges to replace missing teeth, and dental implants to provide a permanent solution for tooth loss. Additionally, restorative dentistry often incorporates techniques like root canals to save and restore damaged teeth. By using advanced materials and technologies, restorative dentistry not only resolves functional issues but also enhances the appearance of your smile, contributing to overall oral health and quality of life.
What are the common procedures in restorative dentistry?
In restorative dentistry, the primary goal is to repair and restore the function and appearance of damaged or missing teeth. Here are some common procedures:
- Fillings: Used to treat cavities, fillings restore the function and shape of a tooth. Materials used can include composite resins, amalgam, or glass ionomer.
- Crowns: Crowns cover a damaged tooth to restore its shape, size, and strength. They are often used after a root canal or when a tooth has a large filling.
- Bridges: Bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth. They consist of a false tooth (or teeth) anchored to the adjacent natural teeth.
- Inlays and Onlays: These are custom-made restorations used for more significant damage than a filling can repair. Inlays fit within the tooth’s cusps, while onlays extend over them.
- Veneers: Thin shells of porcelain or composite resin that cover the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance and restore function.
- Root Canals: This procedure involves removing the infected or damaged pulp from inside a tooth and sealing it to prevent further infection.
- Implants: Titanium posts surgically placed into the jawbone to support a replacement tooth or bridge. Implants offer a more permanent solution for missing teeth.
How do I know if I need restorative dental work?
If you’re experiencing symptoms like persistent tooth pain, sensitivity to hot or cold, or visible damage such as cracks or chips, you might be a candidate for restorative dentistry. Other signs include difficulty chewing, a tooth that feels loose or out of alignment, or noticeable gaps from missing teeth. Additionally, if you have large fillings or extensive decay, your Nanaimo dentist might recommend restorative treatments to prevent further damage. Regular dental check-ups are crucial as they help catch problems early, before they become more severe and require extensive restoration. If any of these issues sound familiar, don’t hesitate to contact our team today to schedule an appointment.
Are restorative procedures painful?
Restorative dentistry focuses on enhancing your oral health and restoring your smile with minimal discomfort. At Nanaimo Smiles, we take special measures to ensure all patients, including those with dental anxieties, have the most comfortable treatment possible. Along with local anesthetics that numb the treatment area, we offer sedation dentistry such as laughing gas, in our Nanaimo dental clinic. Advances in dental technology and techniques have also made treatments more efficient and less invasive, ensuring a smoother and more comfortable experience.
How should I care for my restorative dental work?
Maintaining a routine of brushing and flossing helps keep your dental restorations and surrounding teeth clean and healthy. Using fluoride toothpaste can strengthen both your natural teeth and restorative materials. Regular dental check-ups and cleanings are the best way to ensure your oral health is well maintained as we will be able to address any minor issues before they become major. Enjoying a balanced diet and avoiding overly hard or sticky foods can also help protect your dental restorations. Our Nanaimo dentists will work with you to develop an at-home plan that will ensure your oral health now and in the future.
Does my insurance cover restorative dentistry?
Coverage for restorative dental procedures often depends on your specific dental insurance plan. Many plans, including the Canadian Dental Care Plan, do provide some level of coverage for restorative treatments such as fillings, crowns, and root canals, though the extent of coverage can vary. Typically, insurance plans cover a portion of the cost, and you may be responsible for co-pays or deductibles. It’s a good idea to review your insurance policy or speak with your insurance provider to understand the details of your coverage. Our Nanaimo dental clinic can also help by providing estimates and working with your insurance company to maximize your benefits. If you’re unsure about your coverage, it’s always best to ask for clarification so you can plan your treatment and finances accordingly.
Can restorative dentistry improve the appearance of my teeth?
Absolutely, restorative dentistry can significantly enhance the appearance of your teeth, offering both functional and aesthetic benefits. Procedures like veneers, crowns, and bonding are designed not only to repair damage but also to improve the overall look of your smile. Dental crowns can restore the shape and color of a tooth that’s been extensively damaged, blending seamlessly with your other teeth. By addressing functional concerns, restorative dentistry helps you achieve a more attractive, confident smile while also maintaining excellent oral health.
How do I choose the right dentist for my restorative treatment needs?
Choosing the right dentist for your restorative needs can be an exciting step toward achieving a healthier, more beautiful smile! Start by checking online reviews to find highly regarded dentists in your area. Look for a dentist who has a proven track record of success. Scheduling a consultation is a great way to get to know the dentist, discuss your goals, and see how comfortable you feel with their approach and office environment. Don’t forget to consider the range of services they offer and the advanced technology they use, as these can greatly enhance your treatment experience.
What types of restorative treatments are available for children and teens?
Restorative treatments for children and teens focus on addressing dental issues while accommodating their unique developmental needs. Here are some common options:
- Dental Fillings: For treating cavities, fillings can be made from tooth-colored materials that blend with the natural teeth, which is ideal for young patients.
- Crowns: Pediatric crowns, often made from stainless steel or tooth-colored materials, are used to restore teeth that have been significantly damaged or weakened.
- Space Maintainers: These are used to preserve the space left by a lost primary (baby) tooth until the permanent tooth erupts, helping to ensure proper alignment of the permanent teeth.
- Sealants: Dental sealants are applied to the chewing surfaces of back teeth to protect them from cavities by acting as a barrier against bacteria and plaque.
- Bonding: Tooth-colored bonding materials can be used to repair minor chips or gaps, improving both the appearance and function of the teeth.
- Root Canals: In cases of severe tooth decay or trauma, a root canal can save a damaged tooth by removing infected pulp and sealing it.
- Invisalign: While primarily orthodontic, this treatment helps correct alignment issues that might affect dental function and overall oral health.
How does restorative dentistry differ for children and teens compared to adults?
Restorative dentistry for children and teens is designed with their unique developmental needs in mind, focusing on both effective treatment and comfort. For younger patients, we use durable materials like stainless steel crowns and space maintainers to ensure their teeth develop properly as they grow. Preventive treatments such as sealants and fluoride applications are key to protecting their teeth from decay and supporting their healthy development. Additionally, pediatric dental care often includes strategies to make visits positive and stress-free, such as child-friendly communication and sometimes sedation, ensuring a comfortable experience. By tailoring our approach to each stage of dental development, we provide the best care to keep smiles healthy and vibrant at every age.
How do restorative treatments impact the alignment of a child’s teeth?
Restorative treatments can have a positive impact on the alignment of a child’s teeth by addressing issues that might otherwise lead to misalignment. For example, space maintainers are used to preserve the proper space for permanent teeth when a primary tooth is lost prematurely, helping to ensure that the permanent teeth come in correctly. Similarly, restorative treatments like crowns and fillings can restore the function and shape of damaged teeth, which supports proper bite alignment and prevents further dental issues that might affect tooth positioning. By effectively managing these aspects, restorative treatments contribute to maintaining or improving overall dental alignment, creating a more stable foundation for future orthodontic work if needed.
What should I do in the event of a dental emergency?
A dental emergency can include severe toothaches, knocked-out or broken teeth, lost fillings or crowns, uncontrolled gum bleeding, and signs of infection like abscesses or swelling. These instances require immediate attention to prevent complications and relieve pain. If you or your child is experiencing a dental emergency, please get in touch with us immediately.
Nanaimo Smiles, located at 2700 Norwell Drive, Nanaimo, is open from Monday to Friday from 8am to 4pm with select Saturday availability. Please contact our team by calling (250) 591-6000 for immediate assistance. If you are experiencing an emergency while the practice is closed, there is a dentist on call 24/7 through the Nanaimo and District Dental Society at (250) 816-1029. Nanaimo Smiles’ founder, Dr. Nadia Stymiest, is frequently on call and when she is, can be reached via this number.
Restorative Dentistry in Nanaimo, BC
Restorative dentistry focuses on repairing damaged or worn teeth to restore their function and appearance. We use various treatments to improve smiles, enhance comfort, and boost confidence, ensuring that patients leave with healthier, more functional teeth. Contact us today to find out how restorative dentistry in Nanaimo, BC can make a difference in your quality of life.