Dental
restorations are used to restore damaged or
decayed teeth. They can frequently save teeth
that would otherwise need to be extracted.
Restorations include fillings, inlays and onlays,
veneers, crowns, implants, bridges, and dentures.
Dental restorations can be described as direct
and indirect restorations. Some restorations
require multiple visits to the dentist (e.g.,
crowns, bridges). Restorations can be made from
a number of different materials, including
amalgam, composite resin, ionomers, metal
alloys, porcelain and porcelain fused to metal.

Before the
dental restoration procedure begins, patients
need to see a dentist for a dental examination
to determine what type of restoration is right
for them. The dentist may also evaluate the
patient's medical and dental history. The
general process for dental restorations is
similar for all types of restoration. The tooth
is first prepared for the restoration. Any tooth
decay is removed and the tooth may
be reshaped. If an indirect restoration is to be
used, the dentist will take an impression to
make the restoration. The restoration can then
be placed and adjusted as needed. Once placed,
restorations do not usually cause discomfort.

The longevity of a dental restoration depends on
many factors, including the patient's health,
dental hygiene, type of restoration, material
and the location in the mouth. In general,
dental restorations require the same care as
natural teeth. However, it is typically
recommended that patients with restorations
avoid placing unnecessary stress on the
restoration. Dental restorations can chip,
fracture, break, come loose, fall off or become
stained. |