Restorative vs. Cosmetic Dentistry

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At Smile Now STL, we offer a complete list of dentistry services, which includes both restorative and cosmetic dentistry. These two types of dental services are similar in many ways, but have some notable differences. When you’re scheduling an appointment with your dentist in St. Louis, MO, here’s how you can know which service you need.

What Is Restorative Dentistry?

Restorative dentistry focuses on improving the function of your teeth. When you have injuries, cavities, infections, or bone loss due to aging, you may have damage to your teeth or jaw that makes it difficult to chew correctly. You can also suffer damage to the tooth enamel, which can lead to pain.Restorative dentistry focuses on restoring these problems to improve the function of your teeth. It can also improve the health of your teeth to prevent problems in the future.

What Is Cosmetic Dentistry?

Cosmetic dentistry focuses on enhancing the appearance of stained, chipped, cracked, or misshapen teeth. These teeth may function properly, but they don’t look the way the patient wants them to. The goal of cosmetic dentistry is less about restoring function and more about improving the look of your smile.

Which Service Do I Need?

The service that’s best for you will depend on what’s wrong with your teeth. If your dentist in St. Louis, MO, has determined there is a structural or enamel issue with your teeth, or if you have lost teeth, then you’ll need to focus on restorative dentistry. If the primary problem is cosmetic in nature, but the teeth function fine, then you need cosmetic dentistry.

At [practice name], we are pleased to offer both types of dental treatments. If you are in need of help with your teeth, reach out to our team to schedule a consultation with one of our dentists today.

Root Canals: Saving Your Natural Teeth with Restorative Care

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Root canals tend to stir up a sense of dread. The reality is that a root canal is a vital procedure that allows you to save your natural tooth. If your restorative dentist in St. Louis, MO, suggests you need a root canal, it’s important to understand the benefits and dispel some of the myths.

What Is a Root Canal?

If you have a tooth with an infection or damage, the dentist may suggest a root canal. The goal is to remove the source of the infection, the pulp, and save the tooth’s root. The root is the part that embeds into your jawbone to secure the tooth.

With the pulp gone, the dentist can access the canals that hold the infected pulp and clean them out. Then they can place a filling or crown on what is left of the tooth.

What Is the Benefit of a Root Canal?

A root canal is a restorative dental procedure. It allows you to maintain a significant portion of your natural tooth instead of having it removed and replaced with a prosthesis. This procedure also rids the tooth of the infection to prevent further damage and to keep it from spreading.

With your tooth still in place, you can chew naturally and maintain your beautiful smile.

What To Expect During a Root Canal?

One of the biggest myths surrounding root canals is that they are painful. While that may have once been true, with modern anesthesia techniques, they aren’t any more painful than getting a filling.

As with most dental procedures, you may experience mild discomfort after a root canal, and the tooth may be sensitive. That will clear up in a few days. Eventually, you’ll return to your dentist in St. Louis, MO, and get a permanent filling or crown.

Call today to learn more about restorative dentistry in St. Louis, MO.

Periodontal Disease

Recapture Your Smile with Restorative Dentistry

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At Smile Now STL, we firmly believe that there is no reason not to smile!

Dr. O’Connor has 45 years of experience and utilizes the latest equipment and technology to diagnose and treat complex oral health problems. The goal is to employ every possible technique and service to help retain or restore healthy teeth and gums.

Dr. Tom and the caring staff at our South St. Louis clinic will assess your needs and help you decide how best to deal with problems such as tooth loss or misalignment, decay and yellowing, gum disease, and associated pain. We offer solutions that include cosmetic and restorative dentistry, based on modern diagnostics.

You’re Never Too Old to Learn Better Dental Practices

We also offer our patients detailed instruction on modern dental cleaning and prevention techniques. We’ll advise you about the best ways to prolong the life and beauty of your natural teeth or recommend implants if necessary.

Our goal is to save or repair your teeth whenever possible to prevent further problems and restore dental health and to give you new options as they are available. We always want to give you new reasons to smile. Our personalized dental care practice in St. Louis County is dedicated to the comprehensive care that will keep your smile bright.

Don’t Postpone an Oral Health Check

Whatever your current age and existing dental problems, we can recommend healthy, aesthetically pleasing solutions that will enhance your life and improve your smile. Dr. O’Connor’s precise 3D Digital Guided Technology can give you a full smile restoration in one day. Are you ready to learn more?Contact us now to schedule an initial consultation.

Smile Now STL provides complete information and advice about general dentistry procedures and implant services. Whether you need a single replacement tooth to fill a gap, restoration of severely damaged teeth, or whitening and alignment correction, we are happy to schedule a comprehensive examination.