Restorative Dentistry FAQs

Dental exams and cleanings are meant to preserve oral health and minimize the risk of dental problems. Still, daily oral functions put wear and tear on the teeth, and it is not unusual for people to develop some type of dental damage at some point in their lives.

When the health, strength, or structure of the teeth has been compromised, restorative dentistry services can repair dental damage. People often have questions prior to undergoing restorative dentistry treatment. Here, Dr. Jean Barthman, who serves individuals from Redwood City, CA, and surrounding areas, provides answers to restorative dentistry FAQs so that patients are well informed about the care they will receive.

What Issues Can Be Corrected With Restorative Dentistry?

There are a wide range of treatments that fall under the category of restorative dentistry. Each treatment is able to address specific issues, with many procedures capable of correcting more than one problem. Restorative dentistry treatments essentially address any issue that affects oral health, strength, or functions. Some of the most common problems that are treated with restorative dental care include:

• Tooth decay (dental cavities)
• Dental damage (chips, cracks, fractures)
• Acid erosion
• Root canal infection
• Tooth loss

How Can I Treat Tooth Decay or Dental Damage?

Tooth decay and dental damage are very common among our Redwood City patients. The teeth are continually exposed to sugars and starches in foods and beverages. This, along with the pressure of biting and chewing, puts the teeth at risk for dental cavities and structural damage. Fortunately, there are multiple restorative dentistry treatments that repair damage and decay to restore the integrity of the teeth. Effective treatments for tooth decay and dental damage include:

• Tooth-colored fillings
• Dental bonding
• Dental crowns

What Are My Options for Missing Teeth?

Tooth loss is another common oral health concern. If dental complications are not treated in a timely manner, they continue to progress, which can eventually lead to tooth loss. Missing teeth compromise oral functions, detract from the beauty of the smile, and put adjacent teeth at risk. It is important to address tooth loss as soon as possible. Dr. Barthman offers some of the most effective tooth loss treatments, such as:

• Dental bridges
• Partial and full dentures
• Dental implants

Are Restorative Dentistry Treatments Painful?

Restorative dentistry treatments often involve reshaping or cleaning the teeth to eliminate damage and decay. This makes many patients fearful that procedures will be painful. At her dental practice, patient comfort is one of Dr. Barthman’s top priorities. She offers local anesthesia to minimize or eliminate discomfort throughout treatment.

Does Insurance Cover the Cost of Restorative Dentistry Treatments?

Restorative dentistry treatments can be costly, so it is natural for our Redwood City patients to ask if their procedure will be covered by dental insurance. Each dental insurance plan is unique, so the type and amount of coverage provided varies for each patient. However, because restorative dentistry treatments support oral health, they are not considered elective. As such, most insurance providers cover at least a portion of the cost of restorative dentistry treatment. If coverage is not provided, or if a patient does not have dental insurance, we can help them consider financing options.

Contact Us

If the integrity of your smile has been compromised by dental damage, tooth decay, or tooth loss, restorative dentistry treatments can help you restore oral health and functions. To learn more about the restorative dentistry services offered by Dr. Jean Barthman, send us a message online or call (650) 367-4967 at your earliest convenience.