Mission Valley
Restorative Dentist
Repair Damaged, Missing Teeth
Restorative Treatments
Whether you have a cavity, a damaged tooth, or one or more missing teeth, the team at Rio Vista Family Dentistry & Orthodontics is here to help. To schedule an appointment at our office or to get more details about our restorative dentistry treatments, contact our Mission Valley dentists today!
Chew on This
Millions of Americans suffer from tooth loss every year.
Dental fillings at the first sign of a cavity will help you avoid further complications down the road.
If a cavity is left untreated, it can grow, eventually requiring a dental crown to protect your tooth structure.
Toothaches are your body’s way of telling you that something is wrong. Don’t ignore pain; Come in for restorative treatment today.
Dental issues will not go away on their own. We offer judgment-free restorative treatment to get you back to optimal health.
Millions of Americans suffer from tooth loss every year.
Dental fillings at the first sign of a cavity will help you avoid further complications down the road.
If a cavity is left untreated, it can grow, eventually requiring a dental crown to protect your tooth structure.
Toothaches are your body’s way of telling you that something is wrong. Don’t ignore pain; Come in for restorative treatment today.
Dental issues will not go away on their own. We offer judgment-free restorative treatment to get you back to optimal health.
Treating Cavities
Dental Fillings
Fillings are the best way to repair teeth that have been affected by a cavity or minor damage, such as a chip or small crack in the tooth. During treatment, the damaged tooth material is removed with specialized dental tools, then a filling is used to replace the damaged enamel. This treatment restores both the function and shape of the tooth.
Treating Tooth Loss
Fixed Bridges
Fixed bridges are often used to replace a single missing tooth. They require you to have two of your teeth trimmed. Two crowns are attached to these teeth, suspending the false tooth where the missing tooth used to be. This type of bridge cannot be removed.
Fix Damaged, Missing Teeth
Crowns & Bridges
Dental crowns are usually made of porcelain, and are designed to cover up your tooth completely, all the way to the gum line. They are usually recommended for seriously damaged teeth, as they cover up your entire tooth and protect it from further damage while restoring its natural shape and appearance. Bridges are similar, and they consist of two dental crowns which attach to healthy teeth and suspend a false tooth (pontic) in the area where your missing tooth used to be.Mouthguards also prevent soft tissue injuries by covering up your sharp teeth. Without a mouthguard, you could accidentally bite your tongue, lips, or cheeks when you experience a fall or blow to the head, causing serious lacerations and heavy bleeding.
Affordable Smile restoration
Dentures
We offer partial dentures as well as full dentures. Partial dentures replace multiple missing teeth by attaching to your healthy teeth. Full dentures fit directly over your gums, and are a cost-effective way to restore your smile if you’ve lost most or all of your natural teeth.
Permanently Restore Missing Teeth
Dental Implants
Dental implants are surgically placed into your gums and jaw, functioning as an artificial tooth root. The implants bond with your bone structure to create a strong base for a restoration. An implant-supported restoration like a dental crown, bridge, or denture will be attached to restore your smile. Implants last 30+ years with proper care and protect the health of your jaw, making them the best long-term method of restoring missing teeth.
benefits of immediate care
Why get Restorative Treatment?
The biggest benefit of restorative treatment is that it allows you to regain your natural smile and bite, and get back to your day-to-day life. If you have one or more missing or damaged teeth, this can interfere with your ability to chew or even speak properly, and can also negatively impact your self-esteem. Restoring your smile allows you to get your life back to normal, without worrying about these issues.
In addition, restorative treatment helps you avoid further dental health complications. An infected tooth that’s not treated with a root canal, for example, may eventually fall out and require replacement with a denture, bridge, or dental implant. Or, if you don’t replace a missing tooth, the surrounding teeth will shift toward it, which may negatively affect your bite and tooth alignment. Getting help for your issue as soon as possible will prevent these problems.
tooth replacement
know your options
There are three primary options for replacing a missing tooth: partial dentures, dental bridges, and dental implants. Partial dentures are usually the fastest way to restore one or more missing teeth. They consist of one or more false teeth, which are held in place by metal clasps that clip onto your remaining healthy teeth. They are very affordable, but often do not last as long as other replacement options.
Dental bridges use two crowns, which attach to your healthy teeth and are cemented in place. Between these crowns, one or more false teeth (pontics) are suspended, replacing your missing teeth. Bridges are typically more costly than partial dentures, but they look and feel more natural and last longer.
Dental implants use a two-part design. The implant itself is a titanium post that is surgically placed into your gums and jaw. It heals and bonds with the jaw bone, and functions as an artificial root. Once it heals, a dental crown can be attached to the implant, functioning as an artificial tooth. Dental implants are the most durable, long-lasting and natural method of restoring missing teeth, but are also the most expensive option.
Treating infection
root canal Therapy
Root canal therapy is required if your tooth becomes infected. A tooth infection occurs when decay or damage destroys the hard layers of enamel and dentin that protect your inner “pulp.” The pulp inside your tooth contains the blood vessels and nerves that keep your tooth alive.
When the pulp becomes infected, this causes a serious toothache and a number of other unpleasant symptoms. Root canal therapy consists of creating an opening in the tooth with a drill, then removing the decayed and damaged material from inside the tooth. Once it has been removed, the interior of the tooth is cleaned, sanitized and disinfected. Then, your doctor will fill the tooth and restore it with a temporary crown or dental filling. With root canal therapy for a tooth infection, you can save your infected tooth and restore your smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Restorative dentistry is a vital aspect of dental care that focuses on repairing and restoring the function and aesthetics of your teeth. At Rio Vista Family Dentistry, we understand the importance of maintaining a healthy and beautiful smile, which is why we offer a range of restorative dental procedures tailored to meet your unique needs. Some of the most common restorative dental procedures include:
1. Fillings: One of the most basic forms of restorative dentistry, fillings are used to repair cavities and minor tooth decay. We use tooth-colored materials that blend seamlessly with your natural teeth, ensuring a discreet and effective solution.
2. Crowns: When a tooth is severely damaged or decayed, a crown can be placed over it to restore its shape, size, and strength. Crowns are custom-made to match the color and appearance of your natural teeth.
3. Bridges: If you're missing one or more teeth, a dental bridge can fill the gap. Bridges are anchored to the surrounding teeth, providing a stable and functional replacement for missing teeth.
4. Dentures: For those who have lost multiple teeth, dentures offer a removable option that restores both function and appearance. They can be full or partial, depending on the extent of tooth loss.
5. Implants: Dental implants are a more permanent solution for missing teeth. They involve placing a titanium post into the jawbone, which acts as a replacement root, and then attaching a crown to it. Implants provide a natural look and feel, making them a popular choice for many patients.
Replacing missing teeth is crucial for maintaining oral health, facial structure, and overall quality of life. At Rio Vista Family Dentistry, we offer several options to help you regain your smile and confidence:
1. Dental Implants: As mentioned, implants are a popular choice due to their durability and natural appearance. They function like natural teeth and can last a lifetime with proper care.
2. Bridges: A bridge can replace one or more missing teeth and is anchored to the adjacent teeth. This option is less invasive than implants and can be completed relatively quickly.
3. Dentures: Whether full or partial, dentures are a versatile option for those missing several teeth. They are custom-fitted to your mouth and can be easily removed for cleaning.
4. Implant-Supported Dentures: This option combines the stability of implants with the convenience of dentures. The dentures snap onto implants, offering a secure fit without the need for adhesives.
Choosing the right option depends on several factors, including the number of missing teeth, the health of your remaining teeth, and your budget. Our experienced team will work with you to determine the best solution for your specific needs.
Dental insurance coverage for restorative procedures can vary significantly depending on your plan. Most insurance plans cover a portion of restorative treatments, particularly those deemed medically necessary. For example, fillings and crowns are often partially covered, while elective procedures like cosmetic restorations might not be.
At Rio Vista Family Dentistry, we are committed to helping you navigate your insurance benefits. Our knowledgeable staff will assist you in understanding your coverage and maximizing your benefits. We also offer flexible payment options to ensure that you receive the care you need without financial stress.
Choosing the right restorative option involves considering various factors, including the condition of your teeth, your long-term oral health goals, and your personal preferences. Here's how we help you make an informed decision:
1. Comprehensive Evaluation: Our dentists will conduct a thorough examination of your teeth and gums, using advanced diagnostic tools to assess your oral health.
2. Personalized Consultation: We'll discuss your concerns, goals, and lifestyle to understand what you're looking for in a restorative solution.
3. Treatment Plan: Based on the evaluation and consultation, we'll present you with a customized treatment plan that outlines the best options for your situation.
4. Expert Guidance: Our team will explain the benefits and potential drawbacks of each option, ensuring you have all the information needed to make a confident decision.
At Rio Vista Family Dentistry, your oral health and satisfaction are our top priorities. Our skilled dentists, Dr. Joy Bonifacio Lockwood, Dr. Raquel Reyes, and Dr. Patricia Campillo, are dedicated to providing exceptional care to patients in San Diego and surrounding areas. Whether you're dealing with a single missing tooth or require a comprehensive restorative plan, we're here to help you achieve a healthy, radiant smile.
Judgement-Free Consultations
Book OnlineModern Dental Care
Your Local Mission Valley Dentist
hours
M & W: 7am - 6pm
T & Th: 7am - 4pm
F: 7:30am - 2pm
Address
8590 Rio San Diego Drive
Suite 110
San Diego, CA 92108
