Tooth enamel is the front line of defense for your teeth. One chink in your armor, through injury or bacterial invasion, and you become vulnerable to the forces of dental decay. At Austin Laser Dentistry, Dr. Helen Ragsdale applies state-of-the-art restorative dentistry to reinforce oral defenses.
Don’t wait until your teeth fall out. Even small tooth fractures warrant a phone call to our office in Austin, TX. Whether you need a filling, an implant, or a full set of dentures, Dr. Ragsdale can provide the procedure to fit your needs.
Restorative Dentistry
Restorative dentistry aims to preserve your natural teeth and correct dysfunction and disease. If your teeth are damaged or missing, Dr. Ragsdale will use high-quality materials to repair or replace them, and she’ll make sure your bite is aligned properly. (This means your upper teeth and lower teeth fit together well, and your TMJs are properly seated, when your mouth is shut.)
There are two types of restorative dentistry: direct and indirect.
Direct tooth restoration involves using tooth-colored composite resin to repair a filling. Tooth-colored resin, unlike amalgam, will blend seamlessly into your smile.
Indirect restoration involves tailor-made restorations and prosthetics, such as crowns, implants, bridges or dentures. For these treatments, she uses hypoallergenic porcelain that can last over a decade with proper care. Overall, her mission is to maintain or improve your oral functionality, aesthetic appearance, and, most importantly, health.
Health Hazards
Any opening in a tooth, from a small crack in the enamel to decay in the dentin, can lead to infection in the inner pulp. This infection can spread to the surrounding gum and bone structure, possibly killing the tooth in the process . To prevent bacteria from spreading, Dr. Ragsdale will remove the infection and decayed tissue and fill the cavity. At the first sign of a chip or crack, you should make a proactive choice and call our office.
Missing teeth not only leave your gums susceptible to periodontal disease, but they can also cause disorder in the entire oral system. When you’re missing a tooth, your other teeth will shift to fill the space, which can result in bite imbalance and even cause TMJ disorder or dental erosion. If a missing tooth is not replaced, lack of stimulation in the nerves will eventually lead to jawbone degeneration. Missing and damaged teeth need replacements to avoid compromising the health and function of the entire mouth.
Cosmetic Restoration
Not only will restorative dentistry rehabilitate your oral health; it can also bolster your mental and emotional health. Studies show that smiling unleashes a host of feel-good neurotransmitters– such as dopamine, endorphins, and serotonin– that work to fight off stress and enhance overall happiness. A healthy, balanced bite can give you the self-assurance needed to smile more and stress less.
Healthy Mouth, Happy Smile
Dr. Ragsdale works to restore health and functionality, but she also aims to fulfill the aesthetic wishes of her patients. She can help you reach optimal oral health and give you a smile you’re proud to show off. Give us a call at 512-346-4690 or visit our office in Austin, TX to find out how restorative dentistry can help you.
