Complex Restorative Dentistry for Better Oral Health

A large number of dental procedures make up the process of performing complex restorative dentistry.

Treatment plans are created to address the individual, specific oral health needs of patients, and may include any one or more of the following:

• Prophylactic Cleaning: Typically occurring bi-annually, this procedure involves mechanical removal of above-the-gum plaque and tartar deposits with hand or ultrasonic instruments and eliminates extrinsic stain with coronal (crown) polishing.
• Periodontal Treatment: Since periodontal disease develops below the gum line, treatments target damage caused to the gum tissues, tooth roots and bone surfaces. Procedures may involve scaling and root planing, osseous surgery or laser gum therapy.
• Crown Lengthening: Functional and esthetic versions of the procedure exist. Functional crown lengthening removes excess bone and gum tissue to allow for the placement of a dental restoration, while esthetic crown lengthening eliminates overgrown tissue to reduce periodontal pocket depths or the appearance of a “gummy smile.”

• Orthognathic Surgery: Designed to improve the relationship between the upper (maxilla) and lower (mandible) jaw structures, orthognathic surgery may be recommended to correct congenital abnormalities or damage due to trauma or environmental factors.
• Gum Tissue Recontouring: When the gum line has become uneven, either through mechanical or biological factors, this procedure can be performed to smooth and reshape gum tissues for a healthier gum-to-tooth ratio and greater esthetics.
• Reduction of Tooth Structure: Teeth that are longer than adjacent areas or have areas interfering with bite functionality can be adjusted with this procedure, which reduces small amounts of tooth structure until the proper look or fit is achieved.
• Temporary Restorations: Acting as a “placeholder” until the permanent dental restoration is ready for cementation, temporaries are often a necessary part of the restorative dentistry process.
• Permanent Restorations: These restorations make up the bulk of complex restorative dentistry procedures, and include crowns, veneers, inlays and onlays. Permanent bridges used to replace missing teeth also fall into the dental restoration category.
• Orthodontics: Improving the bite, esthetics and function of the teeth is accomplished through orthodontic treatment.
• Dental Implants/Anchor Bridge Restorations: Dental implants replace missing teeth by closely simulating the relationship between the tooth and its root(s). Implants can be placed singularly, or can support prosthetics such as bridges and dentures.
• Bone Grafting: Bone tissue lost to periodontal disease or other factors can be replaced with a bone grafting procedure utilizing self-donated or bone bank tissue.
• Soft Tissue Grafting: Gum recession often necessitates the need for soft tissue grafting, or replacing lost tissue with a donor sample. Tissue can be obtained from within the patient’s own mouth or an outside source.

When to Seek Restorative Dentistry Treatment

The need for restorative dentistry services is not always obvious. Maintaining regular dental appointments for cleanings and exams is vital in both preventing the need for further treatment and identifying areas of concern. However, any areas within the mouth or jaw that cause pain or discomfort, or are suspicious in appearance, should be evaluated promptly.