Restorative dentistry is a branch of dentistry that focuses on the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of oral diseases and the restoration of damaged or missing teeth. The goal of restorative dentistry is to restore the function, aesthetics, and overall health of the patient’s teeth and oral structures. Restorative dental procedures aim to repair or replace teeth affected by decay, trauma, or other conditions. Here are some common aspects of restorative dentistry:

1. Dental Fillings: Dental fillings are used to restore teeth that have been damaged by tooth decay or cavities. The decayed portion of the tooth is removed, and the resulting space is filled with a restorative material such as composite resin, amalgam, or porcelain.

2. Dental Crowns: Dental crowns, also known as caps, are used to restore and protect teeth that are extensively damaged or weakened. Crowns cover the entire visible portion of the tooth above the gum line, providing strength, protection, and aesthetics. They can be made from materials like porcelain, metal alloys, or a combination of both.

3. Dental Bridges: Dental bridges are used to replace one or more missing teeth. They consist of artificial teeth (pontics) that are held in place by dental crowns on the adjacent teeth. Bridges help restore the appearance, chewing function, and alignment of the teeth.

4. Dental Implants: Dental implants are a popular option for replacing missing teeth. They involve the surgical placement of artificial tooth roots (implants) into the jawbone, which fuse with the bone over time. Implants provide a stable foundation for dental crowns, bridges, or dentures, offering a long-lasting and natural-looking solution.

5. Dentures: Dentures are removable oral appliances used to replace multiple missing teeth. They can be either full dentures (replacing all teeth) or partial dentures (replacing some missing teeth). Dentures help restore chewing ability, speech, and facial aesthetics.

6. Root Canal Therapy: Root canal therapy is performed when the pulp of a tooth becomes infected or inflamed due to deep decay, trauma, or other factors. The procedure involves removing the infected pulp, cleaning the root canal, and sealing it with a filling material. A dental crown is often placed on the treated tooth to restore its strength and functionality.

7. Dental Bonding: Dental bonding involves the application of a tooth-colored resin material to repair minor dental flaws such as chips, cracks, or gaps. The resin is shaped and bonded to the tooth, providing an aesthetic improvement and restoring its natural appearance.

8. Inlays and Onlays: Inlays and onlays are restorative options used when a tooth has moderate damage or decay. They are custom-made restorations that fit into or onto the tooth, providing strength and durability. Inlays fit within the cusps of the tooth, while onlays cover a larger portion of the tooth, including one or more cusps.