Whether you require a straightforward single tooth replacement or a full mouth reconstruction, Dr. Snyder has the skills and experience needed to deliver exceptional results.
Benefits of Restorative Dentistry
Modern restorative dentistry has the ability to improve dental health, functionality and appearance simultaneously. Today’s materials and techniques allow dentists like Dr. Snyder to restore the function and appearance of a healthy tooth conservatively, removing less tooth structure than in the past. The results look more beautiful and are stronger and longer-lasting than ever before.
Some of the most common restorative dentistry treatment plans involve replacing a missing tooth with a dental implant, replacing several teeth with partial dentures or replacing all of the teeth in the upper and/or lower jaw with complete dentures or the All-on-4 system.
Why Replace Missing Teeth?
One missing tooth often leads to additional tooth loss. One of the primary reasons to replace a lost tooth is to prevent bone loss from destabilizing the bite. In the first year after losing a tooth, the jawbone can degrade up to 25%, affecting the facial shape and jeopardizing the remaining teeth. The jawbone relies on chewing force to preserve its strength, and only dental implants to replace the lost tooth root can restore that stability. Replacing a missing tooth maintains your bite and prevents the remaining teeth from shifting to fill the gap.
People with missing teeth have difficulty eating certain foods, including tough, chewy foods like steak, because proper chewing and eating require a complete set of teeth. Replacing missing teeth is vital to the function and appearance of your smile, and dental implants prevent serious dental issues in the future.
How Does Restorative Dentistry Work?
Restorative dentistry focuses on improving oral health. Each treatment plan is unique to the patient, depending on tooth decay, broken or otherwise damaged teeth and missing teeth and how these issues affect their bite, speech and chewing abilities. Restorative procedures, such as root canals, dental crowns, bridges and implants, can provide long-lasting changes for a healthier mouth.
Tooth-Colored Fillings
Fillings are one of the most common dental procedures to restore healthy teeth. Bacteria degrade the tooth enamel and form a hole in the tooth (cavity), and it’s necessary to remove the tooth decay and fill in the hole to prevent further damage to the tooth. Dr. Snyder offers tooth-colored composite material to address cavities and maintain an esthetically-pleasing smile.
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are used to restore broken teeth and repair large cavities. These caps go over the entire tooth structure and are made to match the shade of the adjacent teeth. The damaged section of the tooth is removed and shaved to accommodate the crown.
Dental crowns are a two-visit procedure requiring a temporary crown, while the permanent restoration is customized in a dental lab.
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge replaces one or more missing teeth in a row using artificial teeth (pontics) held in place with dental crowns placed on the adjacent teeth to the gap. These teeth are shaved down to fit the crowns. There are several types of dental bridges, and implant-supported bridges may be an option to strengthen the jaw and avoid crowns on the teeth bordering the missing tooth or teeth.
Dental Implants
Dental implants replace the entire tooth, from root to crown. An implant consists of a titanium post or screw, which is installed in the jawbone underneath the missing tooth. The post is mounted with an artificial tooth (usually a crown), which rests on top of the gumline and matches the surrounding teeth in shape, size and color.
Implants are strong, durable and very long-lasting. Because they are anchored in the jawbone, they keep the bone stimulated to prevent its deterioration and other oral health problems. Implants require the skill of an excellent dentist. People in Ft. Oglethorpe and the surrounding areas trust dental specialist Dr. Snyder for the planning and creation of successful dental implants.
All-on-4
Dental implants can be used to replace groups of teeth or even an entire arch of teeth. With the All-on-4 system, Dr. Snyder can restore a full arch using four dental implant posts. Once the posts have been placed, the denture-like appliance clips to the tops of the posts and securely remains in place.
Partial and Complete Dentures
Partial and complete Dentures are another excellent way to replace an entire arch of teeth. Today’s dentures are stronger, lighter and more comfortable than ever. They support natural chewing and biting function and enable clear speech.
Partial dentures can be used to replace a few teeth by attaching to the remaining natural teeth. Complete dentures replace an entire arch of teeth and are secured on top of the gums.
Why Choose Dr. Snyder at Fort Oglethorpe Dental
Dr. Nancy Snyder has extensive training in restorative dentistry and continues her dental education with annual courses to stay updated on new techniques and technologies. She is a member of the American Academy of Facial Esthetics, the American Dental Association and other organizations. Our restorative dentist takes pride in providing high-quality patient care using the most advanced treatments available. She will customize your treatment plan to your needs and ensure you understand the entire process to improve your oral health and give you back your smile confidence.
Get in Touch with a Restorative Dentist
For more information about the restorative dentistry solutions mentioned here, or to request an appointment with Dr. Snyder, please call or email Fort Oglethorpe Dental today.