Editing Restorative Dentistry

{{Short description|Management of diseased teeth and functional rehabilitation}}
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== Definition ==
'''Restorative Dentistry''' involves the restoration of natural teeth that have been damaged by [[Dental Caries|decay]], trauma, or erosion, as well as the replacement of missing teeth. The primary goal is to return the mouth to full function (mastication) while maintaining an aesthetic appearance.

== Types of Restorations ==

=== Direct Restorations ===
These are performed in a single clinical appointment.
* '''[[Dental Composite|Composite Resin]]:''' Tooth-colored material that provides excellent aesthetics and allows for conservative tooth preparation through [[Adhesive Dentistry]].
* '''[[Glass Ionomer Cement]] (GIC):''' Often used in pediatric dentistry or as a base, known for releasing fluoride to prevent secondary decay.
* '''Amalgam:''' A mixture of metals (silver, mercury, tin, copper). While decreasing in popularity due to aesthetics and environmental concerns, it is highly durable for posterior teeth.

=== Indirect Restorations ===
These require at least two visits or the use of [[Digital Dentistry|In-office Milling]].
* '''[[Crown (dentistry)|Crowns]]:''' A "cap" that covers the entire tooth to provide strength when the remaining structure is compromised.
* '''[[Inlays and Onlays]]:''' Used when the damage is too great for a filling but not severe enough for a full crown.
* '''Veneers:''' Thin shells (porcelain or composite) bonded to the front of teeth, primarily for aesthetic enhancement.

== Principles of Tooth Preparation ==
The success of a restoration depends on specific engineering principles:
# '''Retention Form:''' Features that prevent the restoration from being pulled out vertically.
# '''Resistance Form:''' Features that prevent the restoration or the tooth from fracturing under occlusal (biting) forces.
# '''Structural Durability:''' Ensuring the material has enough thickness to withstand wear.
# '''Marginal Integrity:''' The "seal" at the edge of the restoration to prevent bacteria from entering.

== Materials in Restorative Dentistry ==
* '''Ceramics:''' E.max (Lithium Disilicate) and [[Zirconia]] are the current gold standards for indirect restorations.
* '''Resins:''' Light-cured polymers used for direct bonding.
* '''Metals:''' Gold alloys are still considered the most biocompatible and long-lasting material for posterior restorations, though less common today due to cost and aesthetics.

== See Also ==
* [[Adhesive Dentistry]]
* [[Prosthodontics]]
* [[Endodontics]]
* [[Minimal Intervention Dentistry]]

[[Category:Restorative Dentistry]]
[[Category:Clinical Dentistry]]