Restorative Dentistry in Encinitas

Dental implants are the least invasive and best alternative to missing teeth. They function just like natural teeth, and people forget that they even have them. After a tooth is extracted and a bone graft is placed and healed, a dental implant is placed in the bone, which preserves the bone level and prevents further bone loss in the area and around adjacent teeth. Once the implant integrates with the bone, a crown can be made to fit on top of the implant. If multiple implants are in place then other restorative options, such as a bridge or a denture, can be made to fit on top of the implants.

A composite filling procedure involves the use of a tooth-colored resin material to restore the functionality of broken or decayed teeth. Composite fillings cost slightly more than amalgam fillings, however, they are more cosmetically appealing and may last longer than other types of fillings.

CEREC® same-day crowns are made using advanced technology involving a digital impression of your existing teeth so the new crown will look and feel strikingly similar to your natural teeth. CEREC® crowns may be recommended if you’ve endured a deep cavity removal or tooth fracture. While they might be more costly than other crown options, CEREC® crown longevity and appearance are unparalleled.

Inlays and Onlays are used in restorative dentistry to repair broken tooth surfaces and fill cavities. An inlay dental procedure is similar to getting a tooth filled, and modern inlay material is designed to match the color of your natural teeth.

When an advanced cavity deeply penetrates the tooth and causes severe localized pain, a root canal procedure may be required to prevent further infection. Root canal treatments involve the removal of the nerve and tooth pulp containing harmful bacteria. Back Teeth are usually restored with crowns to match the rest of your teeth, but front teeth do not always need crowns. The only alternative treatment for a root canal procedure is a dental extraction.

Dental Extractions may be needed if you are suffering from severe tooth decay, broken or fractured teeth, or infected teeth. Wisdom teeth may need extraction if there is not enough space in the mouth for them, or if they are partially erupted causing gum and bone infections. Bone grafts can be taken from other sites in the body, or from a donor, and help preserve the bone prior to other procedures such as the placement of dental implants.

Flexible partial dentures cost less than dental bridges, yet they restore the function and appearance of broken or missing teeth. There are many types of partial denture materials to choose from, including porcelain, resin and acrylic. Removable Partial Dentures are sometimes an option for patients that have difficulty chewing with missing teeth.