Restorative Dentistry In San Jose, CA
At My AZ Dental, restorative dentistry focuses on bringing back the function, comfort, and appearance of teeth affected by decay, fractures, wear, or tooth loss. This page outlines common treatments, who may benefit, and what patients can expect during care.
Restorative Dentistry services we provide:
Restorative Dentistry Explained
Restorative dentistry addresses problems that interfere with normal chewing, speaking, and oral comfort. Common options include tooth-colored fillings for cavities, inlays and onlays for moderate damage, dental crowns for weakened or cracked teeth, root canal therapy to save infected teeth, dental bridges to replace one or more missing teeth, dental implants to replace tooth roots, and full or partial dentures for multiple missing teeth.
Patients often ask, “What is restorative dentistry?” In short, it is care that rebuilds tooth structure and replaces missing teeth so the mouth functions well again. While these procedures may improve aesthetics, the primary goal is healthy, durable, and comfortable function.
How Restorative Dentistry Can Help You
- Restore Chewing And Comfort: Treatment makes eating easier and more enjoyable.
- Protect At-Risk Teeth: Crowns and onlays shield weakened enamel from further cracking or wear.
- Replace Missing Teeth: Bridges, implants, and dentures fill gaps to stabilize your bite.
- Support Jaw And Gum Health: Replacing teeth helps maintain bone volume and gum health over time.
- Enhance Speech And Confidence: Closing spaces and correcting tooth shape can improve clarity and appearance.
- Promote Long-Term Oral Health: Early repair preserves more natural tooth structure and can reduce future treatment needs.
The Restorative Dentistry Process
The process begins with a thorough exam and imaging. Your dentist reviews symptoms, health history, and goals, then explains findings in simple terms, including how a dental crown works, when a filling is sufficient, or when a root canal is recommended. A step-by-step plan is created to address urgent needs first and then complete long-term solutions.
For many treatments, teeth are numbed to keep you comfortable. Fillings and single crowns are often completed in one to two visits. Root canal therapy usually requires one visit, followed by a crown to protect the tooth. Dental implants involve several phases: planning, implant placement, healing, and the final crown. Bridges and dentures are made using precise impressions and bite records to fit your smile and bite.
Your Treatment Experience
Before care, expect guidance on eating, medications, and any temporary changes needed. During procedures, local anesthesia helps prevent pain. You may feel vibration or pressure, but sharp discomfort is uncommon. After treatment, some sensitivity is normal and often eases within days. Temporary restorations may be placed while permanent crowns, bridges, or dentures are crafted.
Healing timelines vary. Fillings often feel normal the same day. Crowns and bridges may need a day or two to adjust your bite. Root canal therapy can leave the area tender for several days. For implants, the titanium post needs time to bond with bone before the final crown is attached. Clear aftercare instructions help you manage comfort and protect your results.
Understanding Your Options
- Tooth-Colored Fillings: Resin fillings blend with enamel and work well for small to medium cavities.
- Inlays And Onlays: These custom restorations strengthen teeth when damage is too large for a filling but does not require a full crown.
- Dental Crowns: A full-coverage cap restores strength and shape to cracked, worn, or root canal–treated teeth.
- Dental Bridge Vs Implant: A bridge uses the neighboring teeth for support, while an implant replaces the root and supports a single crown without involving adjacent teeth.
- Partial Dentures: A removable option that replaces several missing teeth and helps stabilize your bite.
Good home care is essential. Brush twice daily with fluoride toothpaste, clean between teeth every day, and follow recommended checkups and cleanings. A nightguard may be advised if you clench or grind to protect new work.
What To Expect Over Time
With routine care, restorations can last for many years. Fillings and crowns have typical lifespans measured in years to decades, depending on materials, bite forces, and home care. Dental implants can last even longer when gums are healthy and plaque is well controlled. Regular visits help monitor wear, catch issues early, and keep your bite balanced.