When your smile goes wrong, it’s important that you know who to call for the dental services you need to get back on track toward good dental health. Oak Grove Family & Cosmetic Dentistry offers a comprehensive menu of restorative dentistry services in a warm, caring environment.
There is rarely a dental concern we cannot treat in our Durham, NC, dentist office. If you have a missing tooth, damaged tooth, or other complex dental concern, please contact our office or schedule an appointment online. Learn more about our restorative dentistry services below.
Restorative Dentist in Durham, NC
Dr. Chavala Harris is your local restorative dentist in Durham, NC. She has helped many patients and community members restore their smiles following dental damage. Whether you need oral appliance therapy to reduce TMJ symptoms, tooth replacement options for missing teeth, or a simple dental crown, Dr. Harris can provide the care you need to restore your smile and peace of mind.
When you receive a restorative dentistry treatment plan at Oak Grove Family & Cosmetic Dentistry, it may include any of the following services.
Dental Bridges
Dental bridges are another tooth replacement option when missing one or more teeth. They rely on the external support of your surrounding teeth to hold a prosthetic tooth instead of a missing tooth. The bridge hardware is fully external, meaning some oral hygiene precautions are necessary to maintain your restoration.
However, dental bridges are an excellent option for patients looking to avoid the surgical procedure required for dental implants.
Dental Crowns
Dental crowns are porcelain caps that replace the entire exterior of your tooth. We recommend them to patients with severely damaged or decayed teeth. Dental crowns allow us to replace the affected tooth without touching its root, helping our patients avoid tooth extraction. The enamel on the affected tooth is shaped down to a foundational core, which supports the dental crown and gives it the functionality of a natural tooth.
Dentures & Partials
Our office offers dentures and partials to patients missing all or most of their natural teeth. Our removable dentures and partials are created using dental impressions of your soft tissues to ensure comfortable wear and secure fit. Patients love our dentures and partials because they allow them to live without difficulty chewing, drinking, or speaking. With proper care, our high-quality dentures should last a lifetime.
Periodontal Disease Treatment
Gum disease is a very common dental concern that we treat in our Durham, NC, dentist office. Early-stage gum disease, often known as gingivitis, can be treated with a thorough dental cleaning. However, if you visit our office after gum disease has progressed past its earlier stages, we can restore your smile with a periodontal disease treatment plan.
Often, periodontal disease treatment plans include a deep pocket cleaning of the gum line to remove any infected tissue or buried bacteria.
Restorative Dentistry FAQs
Restorative dentistry ensures that your smile is fully functional. Learn more.
How is restorative dentistry different from cosmetic dentistry?
Restorative dentistry aims to fix structural issues such as cavities, broken teeth, or tooth loss, whereas cosmetic dentistry focuses on enhancing the appearance of the teeth. However, many procedures overlap, such as crowns or veneers, which can improve both form and function. Restorative work is often considered medically necessary and may be covered by insurance. Cosmetic treatments are typically elective and focused on aesthetics.
Does insurance cover restorative dentistry?
Many restorative procedures are considered medically necessary and are often partially covered by dental insurance. This includes treatments like fillings, crowns, and dentures. Coverage varies depending on your insurance provider and specific plan, so reviewing your benefits is important. Cosmetic procedures and elective upgrades may not be covered.
What is the difference between removable and fixed restorations?
Removable restorations, such as dentures or partials, can be removed from the mouth for cleaning or sleeping. Fixed restorations, like crowns, bridges, or implants, are permanently attached and function like natural teeth. Fixed options are more stable and convenient, while removable appliances may be more affordable and easier to adjust. Your dentist will help you choose the right option based on your needs and preferences.
Can children receive restorative dental treatments?
Children can receive restorative treatments like fillings, crowns, and space maintainers when needed. These procedures help preserve baby teeth until they naturally fall out and maintain proper spacing for permanent teeth. Pediatric restorative care is essential to prevent infections, pain, and future orthodontic problems. A child-friendly dentist will ensure treatments are comfortable and age-appropriate.
Do restorative procedures improve overall health?
Yes, restoring your teeth can have a positive impact on overall health. Untreated dental issues like infections, decay, or tooth loss can lead to systemic problems, including inflammation and difficulty eating a balanced diet. Restorative treatments improve oral hygiene, reduce bacteria, and support better nutrition. Healthy teeth and gums also contribute to improved self-esteem and mental well-being.
Who is a candidate for restorative dentistry?
Anyone with damaged, decayed, or missing teeth can benefit from restorative dentistry. Candidates should be generally in good oral and overall health and willing to follow treatment and care guidelines. Whether you need a small filling or a full-mouth restoration, your dentist will create a customized plan based on your needs. A consultation and exam are the first steps to determining your eligibility.
Schedule An Appointment Today
Looking for a restorative dentist in Durham, NC? Come visit Dr. Chavala Harris and the entire team of dental professionals at Oak Grove Family & Cosmetic Dentistry. We accept new patients and welcome children and adults to our dental practice. Please schedule an appointment online. Our team looks forward to meeting you soon and helping you get back on track toward good dental health.