Often, patients who are unsatisfied with their smile avoid seeing their dentist for restorative dentistry work. But we have found that many people avoid seeking restorative dentistry because they think it will be painful, the timing will be inconvenient, or they need so much work done that they feel like their smile is a lost cause. But we’re here to tell you that if these are your reasons for avoiding a trip to the dentist to fix your teeth, now is the time to rethink those hesitations.

What is restorative dentistry?

The goal of restorative dentistry is to repair or replace damaged or missing teeth. Dental restorations usually consist of dental implants, bridges, or crowns. Patients with cavities (tooth decay), missing teeth, or broken teeth can benefit from restorative dentistry in St. Joseph, MI.

Secrets You Should Know About Restorative Dentistry 

We want patients to overcome any hesitations they have about fixing cavities, missing teeth, or broken teeth. So if you have been wondering about how to treat gingivitis, how to avoid periodontitis, or you are asking yourself if you should get implants, we hope this article is beneficial.

Secret # 1: Need a lot of restorative dentistry work? We’re not appalled!

Patients often think they might get turned away by their dentist if they need a lot of restorative dentistry. And frankly, if your dentist turns you away from the work you need to improve your smile and oral health, you should probably walk away. But at Berrien Dental, we don’t mind how much work needs to be done. 

We see restorative dentistry work as an opportunity to help our patients feel better, and we’re glad you came to us. We encourage open communication, so don’t hesitate to ask us any questions or for any accommodations you need to make your appointment as comfortable as possible.

Secret # 2: Dental implants are often a better choice than dentures.

Patients commonly ask us if they should get dentures or dental implants. The truth is that dentures are a reputable dental solution and are a good choice for some patients. Dentures are less expensive than implants and are an option for those with unhealthy or weak jaws. 

However, dental implants are a permanent solution designed to work, feel, and look just like your natural teeth. And, though implants may cost more up front, they will save you money over time because they last longer and are easier to maintain. If you have been considering one solution or the other, the team at Berrien Dental can help answer any questions you have about tooth replacement options and dental implants in St. Joseph, MI.

Secret # 3: Gum disease can sneak up on you because it isn’t painful.

We’ll cut to the chase—gum disease (also called gingivitis) isn’t painful. But the ramifications of not treating gum disease adequately can lead to painful consequences. Regular preventive dental appointments are necessary not only to provide you with a professional dental cleaning and oral examination but also to help diagnose gum disease in its early stages before it causes any damage.

Gum disease is caused by a buildup of plaque on the teeth, and that plaque contains bacteria, which, if not removed properly, can lead to tooth decay. Further, gum disease can sneak up on you. So, to make sure that your oral health is protected, don’t skip out on those trips to the dentist. We can catch gum disease before it turns into periodontitis (the leading cause of tooth loss in adults).

Secret # 4: Tooth loss in adults is more common than you might realize.

If you are an adult who has lost some teeth, you should know that you are not alone. Consider that adults, when they have all their teeth, will have 32. However, the National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research indicates that adults 20 to 64 years of age have an average of 25.5 remaining teeth. And as we said earlier, the primary cause of tooth loss in adults is periodontitis. Secondary contributors to tooth loss include dental trauma, cavities, and tobacco usage.

The Berrien Dental team wants to be your restorative dentistry partner.

We’re hopeful that by letting you in on some common secrets about restorative dentistry, you can overcome any hesitation you have about correcting your smile and improving your oral health. Like we said before, no job is too big or small. And, we’re more than happy to be your partner. So if you have cavities, missing teeth, or broken teeth, now is the time to request an appointment with Berrien Dental in St. Joseph or Berrien Springs, MI. Let us help you improve your oral health today.