4 Common Treatments Used to Fix Your Teeth

When it is time to fix your teeth, there are many treatments that can be used to accomplish that goal. It often comes down to the particular issues you are dealing with and how much you are willing to pay to restore your smile.

Living with damaged or otherwise unhealthy teeth should never be an option. It can lead to dental complications if the issue that led to their poor condition is never addressed, as well as other problems, like the person's teeth moving out of their proper alignment and bone tissue loss.

Here are common dental treatments to address a wide range of dental issues:

Treatments commonly used to fix your teeth

1. Fillings

Fillings are used to address one of the most common dental issues: tooth decay. It can be used to stop decay in its tracks and preserve the integrity of the affected tooth. During the procedure, the dentist will inject a local anesthetic near the tooth that needs to be repaired.

The dentist will then use specialized tools to remove any decayed material on the tooth and clean it. Finally, the filling is applied to the tooth to fill up the cavity. Fillings can be made from metal alloys or composite resins. Resins are preferred by cosmetic dentists, since these have the same color as the patient's natural teeth.

2. Veneers

Veneers are an effective way to instantly restore a person's smile. These dental prosthetics help hide all the imperfections on a patient's teeth. A veneer is a thin tooth-shaped device that serves as a protective cover for a real tooth.

During the installation of veneers, a small portion of the patient's enamel is removed to make room for the prosthetic. This prevents it from making the patient's teeth appear larger than normal.

One huge benefit of veneers that must be noted is the fact that these prosthetics are often made out of ceramics and porcelain. These two materials are highly resistant to stains, so it is easier for the patient to maintain their natural white color.

3. Crowns

Dental crowns are used to restore the look and function of compromised teeth. Also known as caps, crowns serve a protective function, keeping the enclosed teeth safe from acids, bacteria and saliva in the wearer's mouth.

Crowns are used in conjunction with other dental devices, like implants and bridges. The dentist will sometimes remove some of the patient's enamel when preparing a tooth for a crown. Once a crown is inserted onto a tooth, the function and appearance of the tooth are immediately restored.

4. Composite bonding

Composite bonds are arguably the cheapest way to fix your teeth. This treatment can be used to restore damaged and discolored teeth. During the treatment, the dentist uses a special solution to roughen the tooth and prepare it for the composite. The resin is then applied to the tooth and shaped accordingly. Finally, the mold is hardened with an ultraviolet light.

Want to learn more about these and other options to fix your teeth? Schedule a consultation with one of our dentists today!