Restorative Dentistry Treatments For a Natural-Looking Smile

Millions of Americans grapple with dental issues that impact their daily lives — some in ways they may not even realize. From the discomfort of biting into a favorite food to the self-consciousness that comes with hiding one's smile, oral health problems can significantly affect both physical and emotional well-being. 

According to the National Institute of Craniofacial Research, over 90% of adults have had at least one cavity in their permanent teeth, and countless others have missing teeth, gum disease, or structural issues that compromise their oral function and appearance. These challenges limit dietary choices and hinder social interactions and self-confidence. 

Thankfully, restorative dentistry offers hope for those seeking to reclaim their oral health and rediscover their authentic smile. This branch of dentistry focuses on comprehensive treatments that restore full mouth functionality while enhancing the overall look of your smile.

Continue reading to learn about common restorative dental treatments, including the best option for replacing missing teeth and where to find the best dentist for restorative dentistry in Naperville. 

Most Common Restorative Dentistry Treatments in Naperville

Restorative dentistry includes a range of dental treatments designed to address various oral health issues. Some of the most common procedures include dental fillings for cavities, dental crowns or bridges to repair broken or severely damaged teeth, and dentures or dental implants to replace missing teeth. In fact, these are some of the most common types of dental restorations in Naperville: 

1. Tooth-Colored Dental Fillings

Tooth-colored dental fillings, also known as composite fillings, are used to treat cavities or minor tooth damage. They are the treatment of choice when decay needs to be removed from a tooth, leaving a void that needs to be filled. 

The process involves cleaning the affected tooth, applying a bonding agent, and then filling the cavity with a composite resin material that matches the color of the natural tooth. This material is then hardened using a special light and finally shaped and polished for a seamless finish. Tooth-colored fillings offer a more aesthetically pleasing alternative to traditional amalgam fillings, commonly known as silver fillings.

2. Dental Implants

Dental implants are a permanent solution for replacing missing teeth. They are a great choice when one or more teeth are missing and sufficient bone density to support the implant remains. 

The procedure involves surgically placing a titanium post into the jawbone, which acts as an artificial tooth root; after a healing period that allows the implant to fuse with the bone — in a process known as osseointegration — a custom-made crown is placed on top. Dental implants look, feel, and function like natural teeth, providing a long-lasting and stable solution.

3. Dental Crowns and Bridges

Dental crowns are used to restore severely damaged or weakened teeth, while dental bridges replace one or more missing teeth. Crowns are usually indicated for teeth that have large fillings, are cracked, or have undergone root canal therapy. 

The process involves preparing the existing tooth by removing damaged areas and shaping it to accommodate the crown, which is then cemented in place. On the other hand, bridges use adjacent teeth as anchors to support false teeth in the gap left by missing teeth. Both procedures typically require two visits: one for preparation and impressions and another for fitting the final restoration.

4. Partial or Complete Dentures

Dentures are removable dental appliances used to replace multiple missing teeth. Partial dentures are used when some natural teeth remain, while complete dentures are used when all the upper or lower teeth are missing. 

The process involves taking impressions of the patient's mouth, creating custom-fitted dentures in a dental laboratory, and then fitting and adjusting them in the patient's mouth. Partial dentures use clasps to attach to existing teeth, while complete dentures rely on suction or dental adhesives to stay in place. Both types of dentures require a period of adjustment and may need periodic relining or replacement to maintain proper fit and function.

Dental restoration is highly personalized since every mouth is unique and requires an individualized approach. Moreover, restorative dentistry doesn't just focus on functionality; it also takes into account your smile goals. This means that while the primary aim is to restore full oral function, the aesthetic aspects of your smile are also carefully considered, ensuring that you regain the ability to eat and speak comfortably and achieve a beautiful, confident smile. 

What is the Most Natural-Looking Teeth Replacement Treatment? 

One of the most common questions we get is, “What is the best option for me if I have missing teeth?” For most people, the answer is the same: dental implants. 

Dental implants are widely considered the most natural-looking tooth replacement option due to several key factors. Unlike other treatments, implants replace both the tooth root and crown of the missing tooth — providing a stable foundation that mimics natural tooth structure. This allows for a more realistic appearance and feel. Additionally, the crown portion of the implant is custom-made to match the color, shape, and size of your existing teeth, ensuring seamless integration with your smile. 

How to Decide Between Dentures and Dental Implants 

Deciding between dentures and dental implants is a personal choice that varies depending on several factors. When making this decision, you should consider your overall health, budget, and long-term goals. Key points to understand while making your decision include:

• Health: Implants require sufficient bone density in your jawbone and good overall health for surgery, while dentures are less invasive.
• Cost: Implants are typically more expensive initially but are more cost-effective in the long term. Conversely, dentures are generally less expensive upfront but may require more frequent replacements and repairs.
• Longevity: With proper care, implants last an average of 15 years and can even last a lifetime, while dentures usually need replacement every five to ten years.
• Comfort and functionality: Implants feel and function more like natural teeth, while dentures may take time to get used to and can affect speech and eating.
• Maintenance: Implants require regular oral hygiene, like teeth brushing, while dentures need daily removal and specialized cleaning.
• Bone health: Implants help preserve jawbone density, whereas dentures may lead to bone loss over time. This bone loss may require new dentures or surgical procedures like bone grafting to replace the lost bone.

Where to Find the Best Restorative Dentist in Naperville

Restorative dentistry is a highly specialized dentistry requiring precision techniques and a patient-centered approach. Under Dr. Donald Jonker's leadership, the Naperville Family Dental team combines these important aspects with advanced technology to deliver outstanding results.  

Whether you require simple restorative procedures or complex full-mouth rehabilitation, Naperville Family Dental's state-of-the-art facilities and commitment to excellence make them a top choice for restorative dentistry in Chicago. 

Ready to see the best restorative dentist in Naperville to help you start smiling with confidence and eating without pain or restriction?