Restorative Dentistry in Cerritos, CA

A dental bridge in Cerritos is a restorative dentistry solution used to replace one or more missing teeth. As the name suggests, it "bridges" the gap created by missing teeth. A typical bridge consists of two crowns for the teeth on either side of the gap (known as abutment teeth) and a false tooth or teeth in between (known as pontics).

The process of getting a dental bridge involves several steps. First, the abutment teeth are prepared by removing a portion of enamel to allow room for a crown to be placed over them. Next, impressions of the teeth are made, which serve as a model from which the bridge, pontic(s), and crowns will be made by a dental lab. While the bridge is being created, you'll wear a temporary bridge to protect the exposed teeth and gums.

Once the dental bridge is ready, the temporary bridge is removed, and the new bridge is adjusted as necessary to achieve a proper fit. The bridge is then cemented into place, restoring the function and appearance of your smile.

Dental crowns, also known as "caps," are custom-made restorations that cover the entire visible part of a tooth. They are used when a tooth is damaged or decayed to the point that a dental filling won't suffice. Crowns can restore the shape, size, strength, and appearance of the tooth, effectively encapsulating the damaged tooth to protect it from further harm.

The process of getting a crown typically involves two visits to the dentist. During the first visit, the dentist prepares the tooth by removing the decayed or damaged areas and reshaping the tooth to accommodate the crown. An impression of the tooth is then taken and sent to a dental lab, where the crown is fabricated. During the second visit, the custom-made crown is cemented onto the prepared tooth.

Identifying the need for a dental filling is not always straightforward, especially in the early stages of tooth decay. You may not experience any symptoms until the decay has progressed significantly. However, some common signs that you may need a dental filling include tooth sensitivity to hot, cold, or sweet foods and drinks, a persistent toothache, visible holes or pits in your teeth, and pain when biting down.

Regular dental check-ups are crucial for early detection and treatment of tooth decay. Your dentist will use various diagnostic tools, like dental x-rays and intraoral cameras, to detect cavities that aren't visible to the naked eye. If a cavity is found, a dental filling is typically the first line of treatment to restore the tooth's health and prevent further decay.

Restorative Dentistry is a specialized branch of dentistry that focuses on restoring the health and function of your teeth and gums. It encompasses a wide range of dental treatments designed to repair or replace damaged or missing teeth. This could involve anything from simple dental fillings to more complex procedures like dental implants, crowns, bridges, and dentures.

Restorative dentistry aims to alleviate dental pain, improve oral health, and enhance the appearance of your smile. It's not solely about aesthetics; it's about restoring your ability to chew, speak, and smile with confidence. Whether it's a decayed, broken, or missing tooth, restorative dentistry in Cerritos provides solutions to help you regain a healthy, functional smile.