Common Restorative Treatments
Dental Fillings
Cavities are the most common reason people need restorative work. We remove the decayed portion of the tooth and fill the space with composite resin that matches your natural tooth color. The material bonds directly to the tooth, providing strength and a seamless appearance. Unlike older amalgam fillings, composite doesn’t expand and contract with temperature changes, which can crack teeth over time.
Dental Crowns
When a tooth has extensive decay, a large filling, or a crack, a crown covers and protects the entire visible portion above the gumline. We shape the tooth to create room for the crown, then place a custom-made cap that looks and functions like your natural tooth. Crowns also protect teeth after root canal treatment, which can make them more brittle.
Dental Bridges
Missing one or more teeth creates gaps that affect your bite and allow neighboring teeth to drift out of position. A bridge fills the space by anchoring artificial teeth to the natural teeth on either side. The result restores your ability to chew properly and prevents the shifting that leads to more complex dental problems.
Dental Implants
Implants provide the most permanent solution for missing teeth. A titanium post placed in your jawbone acts as an artificial root, and once it fuses with the bone over several months, we attach a crown that looks and feels completely natural. Implants don’t require altering adjacent teeth the way bridges do, and they stimulate the jawbone to prevent the bone loss that occurs when teeth are missing.
You can replace a single tooth, several teeth, or support a full denture with implants. The investment pays off in durability—implants can last decades with proper care.
Dentures and Partial Dentures
When you’re missing most or all of your teeth, dentures restore your ability to eat a normal diet and give you back a complete smile. Full dentures replace all teeth in the upper or lower arch, while partial dentures fill in gaps when you still have some natural teeth remaining.
Modern dentures fit better and look more natural than ever before. We take detailed impressions and measurements to create dentures that match your facial structure and gum color. The adjustment period varies, but most people adapt within a few weeks and appreciate the dramatic improvement in quality of life.
Inlays and Onlays
Sometimes a tooth needs more than a filling but doesn’t require a full crown. Inlays and onlays are custom-made restorations that fit into or over the damaged portion of the tooth. They’re stronger than fillings and more conservative than crowns, making them ideal for moderate damage that doesn’t affect the entire tooth.
These restorations typically last longer than standard fillings because they’re fabricated in a dental lab from durable materials. They also fit more precisely, reducing the risk of decay forming around the edges.
Why Restorative Dentistry in Clearlake Matters
Postponing restorative treatment rarely makes things better. A small cavity grows larger, requiring a more extensive filling or eventually a crown. A cracked tooth that could have been saved with a crown might need extraction if the crack extends below the gumline. Missing teeth allow bone loss that makes future implant placement more difficult and expensive.
Our doctors help you understand your options so you can make informed decisions about your dental health. We consider factors like the condition of surrounding teeth, your budget, and your long-term goals when recommending treatments.
What to Expect During Treatment
Most restorative procedures require at least two visits. During the first appointment, we prepare the tooth and take impressions that the lab uses to create your restoration. You’ll wear a temporary crown, bridge, or filling while the permanent version is being made. The second visit involves removing the temporary and placing the final restoration, making any necessary adjustments for comfort and fit.
We use local anesthesia to keep you comfortable during treatment. If you feel anxious about dental work, let us know—we can discuss options to help you relax.
Maintaining Your Restorations
Restorative dentistry in Clearlake needs the same care as natural teeth. Brushing twice daily, flossing once a day, and visiting for regular checkups keep your restorations functioning properly and prevent new problems from developing. Crowns and bridges can last 10-15 years or longer with good maintenance. Implants can last a lifetime if you care for them properly.
Avoid chewing ice, hard candy, or other objects that can crack both natural teeth and restorations. If you grind your teeth at night, a nightguard protects your investment and prevents damage.
Don’t let damaged teeth hold you back. Contact Clearlake Dental to discuss your restorative dentistry options in Clearlake, CA. We’ll evaluate your situation and create a treatment plan that gets your smile back on track. Call today to schedule your consultation.