Restorative Dentistry in Altoona, PA, refers to a specialized branch of dentistry focused on repairing or replacing teeth that are damaged, decayed, or missing, with the goal of restoring their natural appearance and function. This field is integral to maintaining overall
oral health and improving a patient's quality of life. Several dental practices in Altoona, such as Altoona Family Dentistry, Betar Dental, and Perfect Smile Dental, offer comprehensive restorative services.
Common procedures offered under restorative dentistry include:
Dental
fillings: Used to repair cavities caused by tooth decay. Options often include amalgam (silver) and composite (white) fillings, with an increasing preference for mercury-free composite resins for aesthetic and health reasons.
Dental
crowns: Custom-made caps that cover severely damaged, decayed, or weakened teeth. Crowns strengthen the tooth, improve its shape and appearance, and can be made from materials like porcelain, ceramic, or metal.
Dental Bridges: Fixed prosthetic devices used to replace one or more missing teeth. A bridge consists of artificial teeth anchored to adjacent natural teeth or
dental implants, effectively "bridging" the gap.
Dentures: Removable prosthetic devices used to replace multiple missing teeth. Both partial dentures (for some missing teeth) and full dentures (for all missing teeth) are available. Immediate dentures can be placed directly after tooth removal, avoiding a period without teeth.
Dental Implants: A long-term solution for missing teeth, where a titanium post is surgically implanted into the jawbone, acting as a sturdy anchor for crowns, bridges, or dentures. Implants are highly valued for their ability to preserve bone and provide a natural feel and function.
Bonding: A procedure to correct cracks, chips, gaps, or discoloration on teeth using an adhesive gel and composite resin, which is then sculpted and hardened with an LED light.
root canal Therapy: Necessary when the inner pulp of a tooth becomes infected or damaged. This procedure involves removing the infected tissue, disinfecting the root canal, and sealing it to save the natural tooth.
Many practices emphasize a patient-centered approach, offering personalized treatment plans and utilizing modern technologies like digital X-rays and iTero® digital impression systems for precision and improved patient experience. Some clinics also provide sedation dentistry options for anxious patients. The aim is to not only fix immediate dental issues but also to address long-term oral health and prevent further complications, contributing to overall well-being.
