Reconstructive dentistry is concerned with helping you get back to a place of good oral health and properly functioning teeth. There are a number of dental procedures that can be considered reconstructive. However, it may be difficult to know if you should seek out reconstructive dentistry or another option like general or cosmetic dentistry. You will need to consult with your dentist to know for sure which procedures are necessary but, in general, if you have missing teeth, severely damaged teeth, or painful issues then you should seek out reconstructive dentistry.

Missing teeth

Having one or more missing teeth has the potential to make your life very difficult. The simple task of eating can become difficult and potentially painful if you have missing teeth. You may even have to remove entire categories of food from your diet if you have missing teeth. Living with missing teeth can cause you to feel self-conscious and lead you to avoid situations where you have to interact with others. Over time, the bone in your jaw will start to deteriorate if you do not take steps to deal with your missing teeth. Ultimately, getting some help from reconstructive dentistry to deal with your missing teeth will improve the quality of your life and your oral health. In reconstructive dentistry, there are a number of tooth replacement options including dental bridges, dentures, and dental implants. The best option for you depends on a number of factors that you and your dentist will discuss together.

Severely damaged teeth

Severely damaged teeth may require the help of reconstructive dentistry. Damage can occur from some type of trauma, decay, or even everyday tasks like eating. Reconstructive dentistry is needed if the damage to your teeth is severe. For example, some type of trauma to your tooth can lead to a crack. A crack in your tooth can be superficial or it can extend all the way into the root system. If it does go below the surface it could be painful and eventually lead to tooth death. Reconstructive dentistry offers options to deal with this type of scenario including dental crowns or a tooth extraction if necessary. If one or several of your teeth are severely damaged then consider the option of reconstructive dentistry to help you get your teeth properly repaired.

Painful issues

There are some painful dental issues that can be addressed with the help of reconstructive dentistry. For example, an infection in the root of your tooth may require a root canal – which is part of reconstructive dentistry. Other painful issues that can be addressed with reconstructive dentistry include deep decay and teeth that have been damaged due to injury.

Reconstructive dentistry can be used to address a wide range of oral problems. If you have been suffering because of the condition of your teeth, take some time to look into the option of reconstructive dentistry. Schedule a time to meet with your dentist and discuss your options for addressing your missing, damaged, or painful teeth. Talking with your dentist is the first step in the process of getting the help you need.