A Descriptions of Direct and Indirect Tooth Restorations

When you have a broken, decayed, chipped, or cracked tooth, a dental restoration of some kind is the treatment which will bring your pearly white back to full function. When your smile is unhealthy, your ability to speak and eat is affected, as well as your general quality of life. Varying types of restorations which might be recommended by Dr….

When you have a broken, decayed, chipped, or cracked tooth, a dental restoration of some kind is the treatment which will bring your pearly white back to full function. When your smile is unhealthy, your ability to speak and eat is affected, as well as your general quality of life. Varying types of restorations which might be recommended by Dr. Erpenbach depend on your particular case. Restorations are classified into two types: direct tooth restoration and indirect tooth restoration.

Direct Restorations

When you present with a cavity, Dr. Erpenbach will generally provide you with a direct tooth restoration. This means that your cavity will be cleared of all bacteria, prepped for the procedure, and given a filling. This all happens in the same appointment for most cases. The single office visit aspect of a direct tooth restoration is the most advantageous. Ensuring that a direct tooth restoration is all you need when you have a cavity is contingent on visiting your dentist regularly – preferably every six months. This way, tooth decay is caught early before more invasive and challenging restorations are necessary.

Indirect Restorations

Indirect tooth restorations are necessary when a cavity or injury requires more than a simple filling to regain strength and function. The restoration is usually a dental crown, inlay, or onlay. All of these cover more area than a filling when a larger amount of natural tooth structure is lost. Dental crowns cover the entire chewing surface of your tooth. Inlays consist of pre-fabricated material placed within the cusps of a tooth. Onlays cover the outer tip of one or more cusps, including some of the chewing surface. All indirect restorations require more than one dental appointment.

Visit your Knoxville Dentist

Are you concerned that you may have a filling or deep decay requiring a root canal procedure? Dr. Erpenbach is dedicated to a conservative approach with restorations so that as much of your natural tooth structure as possible can be preserved. Talk toÂ?Dr. ErpenbachÂ?about any of your dental concerns at your next checkup. Schedule your visit at ourÂ?Knoxville dentist officeÂ?today by calling 865-584-8630.

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