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Cosmetic Dentistry vs. Restorative Dentistry

Cosmetic Dentistry vs. Restorative Dentistry

Cosmetic dentistry and restorative dentistry often go hand in hand. There are times when a bit of work is required to bring the teeth up to their best possible condition before beginning cosmetic work. At Titirangi Dental, we offer many types of dentistry treatments in West Auckland. In this article, we’re taking a look at the differences and types of cosmetic dentistry and restorative dentistry.

What Is Restorative Dentistry?

Restorative dentistry is an umbrella term for a wide range of procedures that dentists use to keep your mouth functional and healthy. The term mainly refers to the preventative and corrective steps that are necessary to maintain our optimum oral health.

Restorative dentistry can fix a wide range of problems, such as missing teeth, broken teeth, cavities and tooth decay. Fixing these issues is important to prevent them from leading to much more serious problems.

Some procedures in restorative dentistry include:

  • Dental implants – this is used to replace missing teeth in a permanent and highly effective manner
  • Fillings – when a tooth is decayed, that needs to be cleaned out and filled with a special substance to prevent further infection
  • Dentures – used to replace missing teeth, dentures are an effective and fast treatment option
What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?

The main difference between restorative and cosmetic dentistry is that cosmetic procedures are mainly focused on improving the aesthetic value of your smile. Cosmetic procedures can also help to improve the functionality of your mouth and prevent problems like stained or chipped teeth from getting worse.

Some popular cosmetic dentistry procedures include:

  • Teeth whitening – this involves bleaching the teeth to get rid of discolouration and stains on the enamel of the tooth
  • Dental veneers – these are porcelain shells that cover the front of the tooth to fix its shape, size or colour
  • Dental crowns – crowns are used to create a protective shell for broken, weak or decayed teeth
Using Restorative Dentistry with Cosmetic Dentistry

Many dental professionals will use restorative dentistry to fix major issues inside the mouth, such as a broken or missing tooth. After this, your dentist may recommend cosmetic procedures to improve the appearance of your smile as a whole.

The terms “restorative” and “cosmetic” dentistry are umbrella terms that cover almost every dental procedure available today. Depending on the outcome you’re looking for, your dentist will be able to suggest a treatment option. Restorative dentistry tends to be better covered by health insurance than cosmetic dentistry.

Speak to Titirangi Dental to Find Your Perfect Treatment

Make an appointment with the team at Titirangi Dental to solve any oral health issuing you’re currently suffering from. We offer the highest quality restorative and cosmetic dentistry techniques in West Auckland. Call us on 09 817 6057 or contact us online.

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Why do we recommend fluoride toothpaste? 

When you ask your dental professionals the right toothpastes to use routinely?  We always recommend fluoride toothpastes. Because: 

Cosmetic Dentistry vs. Restorative Dentistry

  • Fluoride toothpaste works into tooth enamel, it can make enamel harder and more resistant to acid, attacks from bacteria and sugary foods. 
  • Fluoride toothpaste can remineralize your teeth, it helps to reverse early tooth decay by replacing lost minerals and repairing damage. 
  • Fluoride toothpaste has been proven to significantly reduce the risk of getting cavities.  
  • Using fluoride toothpaste is the most cost-effective way to contribute to better oral health 

Standard adult and children’s fluoride toothpastes contain 1,000-1,500ppm of fluoride.  However, dental professionals may prescribe high concentration fluoride toothpaste for individuals with high risk of tooth decay, it usually contains 5,000ppm fluoride. 

Speak to Titirangi Dental to Find Your Perfect Treatment

Make an appointment with the team at Titirangi Dental to solve any oral health issuing you’re currently suffering from. We offer the highest quality restorative and cosmetic dentistry techniques in West Auckland. Call us on 09 817 6057 or contact us online.

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Is it normal to feel sensitive after teeth whitening?

Cosmetic Dentistry vs. Restorative Dentistry

Is it normal to feel sensitive after teeth whitening?

Yes, most people will feel sensitive after teeth whitening. It is normal because whitening agent make your tooth enamel more porous and permeable. It causes your teeth are easily penetrate to hot, cold, sweet, or sour substances to the nerves.

The sensitivity is usually lasting 24-48 hours, but for people, it can persist for few days.

How to manage sensitivity

  • Use sensitive toothpaste: Apply sensitive toothpastes on the surfaces after you brush your teeth and do not rinse out, leave it overnight.
  • Avoid extremely cold or hot foods and drinks, avoid sweet or acidic foods or drinks for few days after treatment.
  • Be gentle when brushing.
  • Take pain killer like ibuprofen to relieve pain and discomfort.
  • If you experience severe pain and do not improve within 48 hours, contact your dental professional for help.
Speak to Titirangi Dental to Find Your Perfect Treatment

Make an appointment with the team at Titirangi Dental to solve any oral health issuing you’re currently suffering from. We offer the highest quality restorative and cosmetic dentistry techniques in West Auckland. Call us on 09 817 6057 or contact us online.

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Dental Implants

Understanding Dental Implants and Their Importance

Dental health is an integral part of overall well-being, yet it’s often overlooked until a problem arises. Among the most common issues are tooth loss, which can occur due to decay, injury, or disease. Fortunately, modern dentistry offers several solutions to restore your smile, and one of the most effective and lasting options is dental implants.

 What are Dental Implants?

Dental implants are artificial tooth roots, typically made of titanium, that are surgically embedded into the jawbone. Once in place, they provide a sturdy foundation for a replacement tooth, bridge, or even full dentures. The process involves three main stages: the placement of the implant, the healing period during which the implant fuses with the bone (a process known as osseointegration), and finally, the attachment of the prosthetic tooth or teeth.

 The Importance of Dental Implants

1. Restoring Functionality: One of the primary reasons people opt for dental implants is the restoration of normal chewing and speaking abilities. Unlike traditional dentures, which can slip or cause discomfort, implants function like natural teeth, allowing you to eat your favorite foods without worry.

2. Preserving Jawbone Health: When a tooth is lost, the jawbone in the empty space can deteriorate due to lack of stimulation. Implants help maintain the bone by mimicking the function of natural tooth roots, which stimulates the bone and prevents loss of volume and density. This is crucial in maintaining the facial structure and avoiding a sunken appearance over time.

3. Aesthetics and Confidence: Missing teeth can significantly affect your self-esteem and how others perceive you. Dental implants provide a natural-looking and permanent solution, allowing you to smile with confidence. The prosthetic teeth are designed to match the color and shape of your existing teeth, making them virtually indistinguishable from the real thing.

4. Longevity and Durability: Dental implants are designed to last many years, often a lifetime with proper care. Unlike bridges or dentures, which may need to be replaced or adjusted over time, implants offer a more permanent solution, making them a cost-effective choice in the long run.

5. Improved Oral Health: Unlike dental bridges, which require the alteration of adjacent teeth, implants do not affect surrounding teeth. This helps maintain the integrity of your natural teeth and promotes better long-term oral health. Additionally, implants are easier to clean and maintain, reducing the risk of gum disease and other oral health issues.

6. Convenience: Dental implants eliminate the inconveniences associated with removable dentures. There’s no need for messy adhesives, and you won’t have to worry about your teeth slipping out of place. This makes them a hassle-free option for daily life.

 Who Can Benefit from Dental Implants?

Dental implants are suitable for most adults in good health who have lost one or more teeth. However, certain conditions, such as insufficient jawbone density or chronic illnesses, may affect candidacy. A thorough evaluation by a dental professional is necessary to determine if implants are the right option for you.

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Want to know about dental services and how to keep your mouth and teeth in great condition?

Make an appointment with the team at Titirangi Dental to solve any oral health issuing you’re currently suffering from. We offer the highest quality restorative and cosmetic dentistry techniques in West Auckland.
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