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Restorative Dentistry and Prosthodontics: Crowns and bridges, CMD and highly aesthetic solutions

When tooth decay, accidents or years of teeth grinding (abrasion) have caused significant damage, a simple filling is often no longer sufficient. This is where the field of restorative dentistry comes into play. Whether in a specialist clinic for reconstructive dentistry or a general dental practice: the aim is always to restore the masticatory system so that chewing and speaking are once again possible without difficulty. Both medical necessity and the desire to create an aesthetically pleasing smile play a central role in this.

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Brief overview:

Restorative dentistry focuses on restoring lost tooth structure and rehabilitating the jaw. It encompasses fixed dental restorations such as crowns and bridges, veneers, inlays and implants. It also offers solutions for edentulous jaws using prosthetics (partial and full dentures). An important aspect is the treatment of functional disorders (TMJ) to harmonize function and aesthetics.

Article overview

Reconstructive dentistry - Further information

Restorative Dentistry: Restoring Function and Aesthetics

Functional and aesthetic reconstruction involves far more than simply closing a gap. If missing teeth are not replaced, the jawbone deteriorates and the position of the temporomandibular joints can shift. This is where reconstructive dentistry comes in. Comprehensive diagnostics and treatment are used to analyze how the upper and lower jaws are affected. A manual and instrumental functional analysis helps to identify any disturbances in movement before the actual treatment begins. After all, the new dentures will only last in the long term if everything works together properly.

Rekonstruktive Zahnmedizin

Reconstructive dentistry combines modern diagnostics with high-quality prosthetics to restore the function and aesthetics of the jaw.

Treatment and reconstruction: from veneers to implants

The range of reconstructive options is vast. Minor defects at the neck of the tooth or on the chewing surface can often be treated minimally invasively with ceramic inlays and onlays. If the tooth root is still intact but the tooth is severely damaged, a traditional crown is used. If individual teeth or entire rows need to be replaced, bridges or implants are used. Fixed solutions offer the highest level of comfort. For the aesthetic reconstruction of teeth in the front region, veneers (ultra-thin laminates) are ideal, as they require only minimal grinding of the natural teeth.

When the bite is off: CMD and tooth loss

A common cause of tooth loss or severe wear of the tooth structure is teeth grinding (bruxism). Such chewing disorders often lead to craniomandibular dysfunction (CMD). An instrumental functional analysis of the masticatory system is therefore often required before a complete functional and aesthetic reconstruction can take place. Only once the joint and muscles are relaxed can the dental technician in the laboratory fabricate the restorations that will permanently stabilize the bite.

The path to new tooth structure: dental technicians and aesthetics

In complex cases, the dentist and dental technician work hand in hand. Whether it involves dentures, veneers or a complex reconstruction on tooth roots and implants: the result must look aesthetically natural and suit the face (aesthetics and function). Even if patients are completely edentulous, modern full dentures or implant-supported solutions can massively improve quality of life, as they sit securely and naturally shape the gums. A defect thus becomes invisible and the smile is fully restored.

FAQ

How much does reconstructive dental treatment cost?

The costs vary greatly depending on the complexity of the treatment (e.g. number of implants, material for crowns). As these are often complex dental procedures, a treatment and cost plan is drawn up in advance.

What is the difference between inlays, onlays and crowns?

Inlays and onlays are fillings for small to medium-sized defects. A crown covers the entire tooth when there is hardly any natural tooth structure left.

Does restorative dentistry help with TMD?

Yes. By correcting the bite height (e.g. by rebuilding worn-down teeth using table tops or crowns), chewing dysfunction and CMD symptoms can be effectively treated.