What Exactly is Restorative Dentistry?

Restorative Dentistry is the branch of general dentistry dedicated to repairing teeth that have been damaged by decay, trauma, or wear.

Think of it as the construction crew for your smile. When a tooth has a cavity, a chip, or a fracture, the restorative dentist uses specialized materials and techniques to rebuild the tooth back to its original (or even improved!) strength, function, and appearance.

The Core Mission: Function, Aesthetics, and Protection

The goal of any restorative treatment is three-fold:

1. Stop Decay: Remove all infection and seal the tooth to prevent future spread.

2. Restore Function: Ensure the tooth can withstand the forces of chewing and biting.

3. Restore Aesthetics: Use modern materials that blend seamlessly with your natural tooth color.

4. What Exactly is Root Canal Treatment (RCT)?

    

   Root Canal Treatment is the specialty of Endodontics, focused on saving teeth from the inside out when the decay or trauma has reached the soft inner tissue (the pulp, which contains the nerves and blood vessels).

    

   The Myth vs. The Reality

    

   • Myth: Root canals are incredibly painful.

   • Reality: The procedure itself is designed to end the pain caused by the deep infection. With modern anesthetics and techniques, getting a root canal feels similar to getting a large filling.

    

   The RCT Process (The Tooth Saver)

    

   1. Access and Cleaning: The dentist or endodontist drills a small access hole in the top of the tooth and uses tiny instruments to remove the infected, inflamed pulp tissue.

   2. Disinfection: The interior canals are thoroughly cleaned, disinfected, and shaped.

   3. Sealing: The empty canals are filled with a biocompatible material (gutta-percha) and sealed to prevent re-infection.

   4. Restoration: The tooth is often fitted with a crown to protect it from fracture, ensuring it remains a strong, functioning part of your bite for decades.