Restorative Dentistry
Rockton, IL
 At Rockton Dental, our goal is to prevent dental problems before they occur. Unfortunately, this is not always possible due to poor oral hygiene, genetics, infrequent checkups, and other risk factors. This is why we also specialize in restorative dentistry. Our restorative services are designed to improve the function and aesthetics of your smile, as well as your overall oral health.
Dental fillings are the best way to restore minor to moderate instances of tooth decay. Most fillings these days consist of a material known as composite resin. Composite resin is an aesthetically-pleasing material that we color-match to the existing shade of your enamel. For this reason, a composite filling is virtually indistinguishable from the rest of your tooth.
A dental crown is a tooth-shaped cap that improves the structure and cosmetics of a damaged or decayed tooth. During the procedure, your tooth must be completely reshaped to accommodate the shape of the crown. Once the tooth is reshaped, we will permanently bond the crown to the enamel using a special adhesive. Many crowns are fabricated these days with porcelain, due to its unmatched aesthetics.
A dental bridge is a tooth replacement that typically consists of two dental crowns linked together by a pontic, or false tooth. A traditional bridge is supported by the two surrounding teeth, known as abutment teeth, that we reshape to receive the crowns. A bridge can also be supported by a series of dental implants if multiple adjacent teeth are missing. If you are missing a tooth, a bridge will prevent the remaining teeth from shifting out of their proper position.
A dental implant is a small titanium post that we surgically embed into the jawbone. The implant serves as the root component of a prosthetic tooth. Once the implant is in place, it will fuse to the bone during the process of osseointegration. Osseointegration allows the implant to support a restoration against the strongest forces of your bite. For this reason, dental implants are widely considered to be the next best thing to your natural teeth.
A denture is a removable appliance that is usually used to replace one or more missing teeth. A partial denture usually attaches to the surrounding teeth with metal clasps. A complete denture consists of a flesh-colored acrylic base that supports a complete arch of prosthetic teeth. We offer custom-fit dentures as a more comfortable, functional, and durable solution.
Inlays and onlays are ideal for areas of decay too large for a filling, but not large enough to require the placement of a dental crown. The restoration is considered an inlay if it is placed within the occlusal (bite) surface of a tooth. The restoration is considered an onlay if it extends beyond one or more of the occlusal cusps.
There are two types of tooth extractions: simple and surgical. We perform a simple extraction on a tooth that has already erupted above the gumline. We perform a surgical extraction on a tooth that has become impacted, or has yet to erupt, such as wisdom teeth. Extraction may be necessary to prevent the spread of infection and other complications.
A root canal is a last-ditch effort to save a tooth from extraction. We may recommend a root canal if an infection has spread to the "pulpy" center of the tooth that contains nerve endings and other connective tissues. Once the infection has been removed, we fill the canals with a rubber-like material known as gutta-percha. A tooth that has received root canal treatment typically needs to be capped with a crown.
Schedule an Appointment
To learn more about our restorative services call (815) 624-3269, and schedule your appointment now!
FAQ
What is restorative dentistry?
Restorative dentistry can be defined as the comprehensive management and techniques employed by dentists to repair or replace teeth that are damaged or missing. Its primary objective is to restore the functionality and structural integrity of teeth, while also preserving their natural look and improving overall oral health.
How does restorative dentistry differ from cosmetic dentistry?
Restorative dentistry focuses on restoring both the functionality and visual appeal of the teeth. Examples include: crowns, dentures, inlays and onlays, fillings, bridges, and dental implants.
Cosmetic dentistry, on the other hand, focuses primarily on aesthetics. Common procedures include teeth whitening, dental bonding, Invisalign, and gum contouring.
Are dental implants better than dentures or bridges?
While dentures and bridges have been traditional solutions for missing teeth, they do not offer the same stability or long-term benefits as dental implants. Dentures and bridges are less costly but can be challenging to maintain and may not provide the same functional or aesthetic results as implants. Bridges are fixed or removable but can be hard to clean, whereas dentures may cause discomfort or fit issues.
What are the signs that I might need restorative dentistry?
If you have damaged or missing teeth, you are likely a candidate for restorative dentistry.
Restorative dentistry plays a crucial role in repairing teeth affected by cavities, chips, cracks, or trauma. Treatments such as fillings, crowns, and bonding are utilized to restore the tooth's shape, strength, and functionality.
For those with missing teeth, restorative dentistry provides options like bridges, dentures, and dental implants. These solutions are essential in preventing issues related to missing teeth, such as the shifting of adjacent teeth, alterations in bite alignment, and loss of jawbone density.
While the primary focus is on restoring function, restorative dentistry also enhances the aesthetics of teeth. The materials used for crowns, fillings, and other replacements are carefully selected to match the natural color and appearance of the patient's teeth.
Beyond merely addressing current dental issues, restorative procedures also aim to prevent future oral health problems. By reinstating the structural integrity and functionality of teeth, restorative dentistry plays a vital role in maintaining overall oral health and preventing additional decay or damage.
Is restorative dentistry painful?
Restorative dentistry, which involves procedures designed to repair or replace damaged or lost teeth, is typically not a painful experience for the patient. Countless technological advances and effective anesthetics ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. |
