The World Health Organisation estimates some 3.5 billion around the world suffer from some type of oral disease or dental problems. This can range from tooth decay to periodontal disease to tooth loss.

Around two billion people worldwide suffer from caries of their permanent teeth whilst 514 million children suffer from caries of their primary teeth. Severe periodontal disease affects around 19 percent of the adult population, representing more than one billion cases around the world.

According to the Oral Health Foundation, in the UK one in three adults have tooth decay and three in four adults have had a tooth extracted.

But thankfully with the advent of better oral hygiene, access to quality dentistry, and restorative dentistry, the number of people losing all their teeth is now on the decline in the UK.

So, what is restorative dentistry and how can it help you?

Restorative dentistry refers to any type of dental procedure which restores your teeth after some damage. Restorative dentistry focuses on issues, that if not resolved, could lead to further oral health problems. These include cavities or tooth decay, damaged or broken teeth, or missing teeth.

This is compared to cosmetic dentistry which is more concerned with the appearance of your teeth and smile.

Restorative dental treatment offered here at Links Dental Practice includes anything from a filling all the way up to implants.

Some types of restorative dentistry include: 

Fillings

According to Bupa Dental Care statistics, around 76 per cent of British adults have fillings, and 66 per cent have had at least one tooth extracted. Dental fillings are the most common type of restorative dentistry undertaken in our Edinburgh dental practice and they are a simple, non-invasive, and effective way to stop further tooth decay and restore worn teeth or cavities.

Root Canals

If tooth decay or damage has spread through the tooth and into the root, then a root canal treatment is often performed which is a straightforward procedure to restore a tooth and prevent tooth loss. It’s like a deep filling where we remove the diseased pulp, thoroughly clean it, and then fill the area to seal the tooth.

Tooth Extractions

Unfortunately, if the damage is too severe and the infection has spread, then tooth extraction to remove a damaged tooth might be the best solution. But having gaps puts pressure on your other teeth and can create movement so we often suggest further restorative dental procedures such as implants, dentures or crowns and bridges.

Implants and dentures

Implants act as a prosthetic tooth root and replace a missing tooth or teeth and are the most like natural teeth. They are fixed into the jawbone using a titanium post and a crown is fitted on top to match the rest of your teeth. They are long-lasting and durable but do require surgery.

Meanwhile, modern dentures are a traditional and more economical option to replace missing tooth or teeth.

Bridges and Crowns

Dental bridges are like partial dentures to replace missing teeth and are anchored to existing teeth on either side. Crowns meanwhile are fitted caps placed over the teeth offering protection and support. These can be full or partial crowns either covering an entire tooth or in cases of less damage just part of the tooth.

Restorative dentistry gives you the chance to improve your oral health and restore your smile and improve your ability to eat, speak or chew.

If you have any queries about what type of treatment you may require just give us a call on 0131 516 4390 or visit our treatment pages for more information.