Restorative Dentistry in Ann Arbor
Restorative dentistry encompasses a wide range of dental services, including bite problems, tissue and bone grafting, implant placement, and restoration of the teeth. Because restorative dentistry can be complex, you want to be sure you find a dentist near you who has the expertise needed to provide the best care possible.
Our Ann Arbor dentists are highly trained to meet your complex prosthodontics needs. Because many complex situations can be smoothly treated in one office, patients benefit from a more seamless, comfortable, and aesthetic series of transitions throughout treatment.
At DGY Dentistry Ann Arbor, we take a highly personalized approach to care. We match up your preferences and priorities to collaboratively organize your treatment to create a smile you’ll feel confident behind.
What is restorative dentistry?
According to Colgate, “Restorative dentistry involves the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of oral diseases. Your dentist may suggest a treatment plan to restore teeth that are decayed, chipped, cracked, discolored or even missing.”
Restorative dentistry may also be referred to as prosthodontic dentistry, which is a subsection of restorative dentistry. This involves the reconstruction of the mouth with dental prosthetics.
There are a variety of reasons that someone might need restorative dentistry:
- Poor gum health can lead to gum disease and tooth loss.
- Injuries can also cause chipped, cracked, or missing teeth.
- Teeth can get worn down and discolored over time.
Restorative dental services in Ann Arbor
There are a variety of dental procedures that fall under the umbrella of restorative dentistry.
crowns and bridges
Crowns and most bridges are “fixed prosthetic devices” used to replace a missing tooth or teeth. Crowns are used to entirely cover a damaged tooth, while a bridge is used to span the gap(s) between missing teeth by anchoring the replacement tooth to the surrounding teeth or implants.
Crowns and bridges can give a dental refresh to adults who struggle with broken-down dentistry. These procedures can fall under the category of both prosthodontic and cosmetic dentistry, depending on the diagnosis.
At DGY Dentistry, we use porcelain crowns and bridges to achieve a beautiful and natural-looking smile. In some cases, we have been able to use these procedures in place of more invasive implant dentistry.
veneers
According to Healthline, “Dental veneers are thin, tooth-colored shells that are attached to the front surface of teeth to improve their appearance.”
Porcelain veneers are beautiful, strong, and less invasive than crowns. Veneers can convert unattractive enamel, improve spacing, and balance shapes and proportions. Some veneers may only cover the edges or a small area of the teeth for more strength than bonding, while remaining minimally invasive.
dental implants
The Mayo Clinic defines dental implant surgery as “a procedure that replaces tooth roots with metal, screwlike posts and replaces damaged or missing teeth with artificial teeth that look and function much like real ones.”
Having one doctor manage your implant treatment is ideal. Being able to immediately place a temporary tooth when a front or side tooth is extracted gives the best opportunity for precise management of the very important gumline shape; it also sets the stage for stable, long-term results.
At DGY Dentistry, we can manage every step of the dental implant process, from bone and gum grafting (if necessary) to the crafting and placement of the final implants.
tissue and bone grafting
Bone and gum grafting are important when seeking excellent results with dental implants, cosmetic dentistry, complex restoration, and gum care.
bone grafting
Bone grafting is sometimes needed to properly support dental implants where the underlying bone has become thinner and shorter over time. Depending on the situation, bone can be placed into these areas prior to or during an implant placement.
At DGY Dentistry, we use human derived and highly purified bone that has been safely used millions of times to create a framework for your own bone cells to develop in and grow new bone.
gum grafting
Similarly, gum grafting techniques can be used to replace and/or enhance tissue around the teeth to improve stability, shape, and aesthetics. This strong band of gums help teeth and implants thrive.
For patients with sensitive, unsightly, and progressively unstable gum recession, we utilize new, gentle microsurgical techniques that also avoid using the palate as a donor site. Our patients have been exceedingly happy with their levels of comfort and results.
Restorative vs cosmetic dentistry
Restorative dentistry is used for reconstruction in the mouth. It is used to fix dental issues such as bite problems, missing or chipped teeth, and thinning bone, with a focus on preventing or treating oral disease.
Cosmetic dentistry, on the other hand, is done for appearances, to create a more beautiful smile. These procedures can help create a fuller smile, correct worn or discolored teeth, and correct spacing issues.
Although these forms of dentistry are used for different reasons, there is an overlap between procedures. Dental work like veneers, crowns, and implants can be considered both restorative and cosmetic, depending on if it is medically necessary. Talk to your dentist and your insurance provider if you are unclear which category your procedure will fall under.
Restorative Dentistry Near You – Ann Arbor, Michigan
At DGY Dentistry, our Ann Arbor dentists have both the technical skill and artistic talent needed to offer a full range of cosmetic and restorative dental services. We are proud to offer high-quality and aesthetic dentistry and are known for our artistic, lifelike work. Our restorative dental work is both functional and attractive.
We are conveniently located at 3100 E. Eisenhower Parkway with easy access to surrounding Washtenaw County and the larger Southeast Michigan area. Contact us today to learn more about restorative dentistry near you.
