Our patients often ask: How do general and restorative dentistry differ? Even though these two fields of dentistry often overlap, there are differences in the spectrum of the procedures they employ. Please read our article to learn more about these two branches of dentistry.

How Do General and Restorative Dentistry Differ?

Restorative dentistry deals primarily with broken, missing, or decayed teeth. The main goal of this branch of dentistry is to restore the health, function, and appearance of teeth and gums or to replace missing teeth. General dentistry focuses on overall oral health, examinations, preventative measures, and education.

Restorative Dentistry Procedures

Restorative dentistry includes a variety of procedures, depending on a patient’s needs:

Dental Fillings

Dental fillings treat cavities in teeth. They typically involve using resin composite material to fill in the cavity after removing the decay from the tooth.

Root Canal Therapy

Root canal treatment deals with more extensive tooth decay that infects the pulp chamber within the tooth. During the procedure, dentists remove the infected pulp, clean the canals, and fill them with a special dental material that seals them and prevents reinfection.

Dental Crowns

A dental crown covers, reinforces, and protects a tooth weakened by decay. For example, it is often employed after a root canal treatment.

Inlays and Onlays

Inlays and onlays are used in cases when the decay is not extensive enough to justify using a dental crown but big enough for a simple dental filling. They are custom-made in the shape of a piece of the tooth that needs to be replaced.

Dental Bridges

Dental bridges replace individual missing tooth or multiple teeth in a row. They are supported by the remaining natural teeth on both sides and hang over the gap.

Dental Implants

Dental implants consist of a metal post that fuses with the jawbone and acts like the roots of natural teeth, as well as a dental crown. Implants are one of the most sophisticated and reliable methods of replacing missing teeth.

Dentures

Dentures are artificial teeth that rely on the gums or the existing natural teeth for support. There are full and partial dentures, and the choice depends on the number of missing teeth.

Dental Veneers and Dental Bonding

Dental veneers and bonding restore chipped, cracked, or broken teeth. Veneers are porcelain shells that cover the entire outer surface of a tooth, while dental bonding typically covers only a part of it.

Bone and Gum Grafting

Bone grafting involves using natural or artificial materials—grafts—to promote the regeneration of a jawbone that has lost its density. Gum grafting is a similar procedure, but it aims at gum tissue regeneration. The dentist will place grafts in the gum or bone, which subsequently begins regrowing around them. Both procedures are most commonly used in preparation for dental implants or as part of gum disease treatment.

General Dentistry Procedures

General Dentistry procedures include:

Dental Cleanings

Professional dental cleanings are an essential preventative measure. Accordingly, dentists recommend getting professional cleaning every 6 to 12 months to effectively maintain good oral health. In some cases, for example, during gum disease treatment, you might need to have dental cleanings more often, typically every four months. During the cleaning, your dentist removes plaque and tartar buildup from the teeth and gums, thus preventing cavities, tooth decay, and gum disease.

Physical Examinations

Dentists recommend physical examinations every 6 to 12 months to spot any potential oral health issues and establish effective treatment before serious problems develop.

Fluoride Treatments

Fluoride treatment is usually the last step in dental cleaning. Specifically, because it is highly beneficial for reinforcing the enamel of the teeth, making them more resistant to bacteria and decay.

X-rays and Scans

X-rays and scans are diagnostic methods that allow your dentist to effectively establish the cause of the issue and to either prescribe a course of treatment or refer the patient to an appropriate specialist.

Dental Fillings and Root Canal Treatments

General dentists can effectively perform procedures such as cavity and tooth decay treatment with dental fillings and root canal treatments.

Make an Appointment Today

If you need general or restorative dental services, do not hesitate to make an appointment with a dentist in Los Angeles today. We offer a broad spectrum of high-quality modern procedures to ensure our patients’ oral health. Our specialists look forward to welcoming you and your family to Samaritan Dental.