Restoring Your Smile’s Function and Beauty
Dentist Auburn Hills
Restorative dentistry is dedicated to the improvement of both the functionality and aesthetics of your smile, with a strong emphasis on preserving your natural teeth whenever possible. At Auburn Hills Dental, we offer a range of tooth replacement solutions and repair options to address issues such as cavities, damaged teeth, and missing teeth. Our skilled team is committed to delivering high-quality, customized treatments that restore your smile’s health, function, and appearance.
Your Treatment May Include
Dentist Auburn Hills
- Composite Fillings
- Crowns
- Bridges
Composite Fillings
These advanced, tooth-colored fillings are ideal for repairing cavities and minor damage while blending seamlessly with your natural teeth. Made from a blend of plastic and fine glass particles, composite fillings are both durable and visually appealing. They provide a superior aesthetic alternative to traditional metal fillings, maintaining the natural beauty of your smile.
Crowns
Crowns are full-coverage restorations that encase the entire visible portion of a tooth affected by significant damage or decay. They are designed to restore the tooth’s function and appearance while ensuring long-term durability. Available in materials such as porcelain, ceramic, or metal, crowns are optimal for teeth that have undergone root canal therapy, experienced severe decay, or sustained fractures, helping to keep the tooth functional and intact for many years.
Bridges
A dental bridge is an effective solution for replacing one or more missing teeth. This restoration involves placing crowns on adjacent teeth, which then support a replacement tooth or teeth. The bridge not only restores your smile but also helps prevent the shifting of surrounding teeth into the gap, maintaining the proper alignment of your bite. With proper care and regular maintenance, dental bridges can provide a long-lasting, reliable solution for years to come.
Restorative Dentistry Outcomes
Treatment Success and Tooth Preservation
Restorative Treatment Success Rates and Patient Outcomes
Composite Fillings
92
Dental Crowns
95
Dental Bridges
91
Tooth Preservation (vs Extraction)
98
Root Canal Treatment
94
Multiple Restorations
89
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
90%
100%
0%
50%
100%
| Restorative Treatment | Success Rate | Patient Outcome |
|---|---|---|
| Composite Fillings | 92% durability over 10 years | Preserves natural tooth structure with minimal preparation and excellent aesthetics |
| Dental Crowns | 95% structural integrity at 10 years | Restores strength to severely damaged teeth and prevents extraction |
| Dental Bridges | 91% success rate when properly maintained | Replaces missing teeth and prevents remaining teeth from shifting |
| Tooth Preservation (vs Extraction) | 98% success when treated early | Avoids bone loss, maintains facial structure, and preserves natural function |
| Root Canal Treatment | 94% eliminate tooth pain and preserve the tooth | Saves teeth that would otherwise require extraction due to infection |
| Multiple Restorations | 89% achieve comprehensive smile restoration | Coordinates multiple treatments to restore function and appearance systematically |
Sources: American Dental Association (ADA) | Journal of Dental Research | National Institute of Dental and Craniofacial Research (NIDCR) | Journal of Prosthodontic Research | American Academy of Prosthodontics | Journal of Endodontics
Key Findings About Restorative Dentistry in Auburn Hills
Early Treatment of Cavities Costs 60% Less Than Advanced Decay Treatment
The ADA reports that cavities caught at early stages require simple fillings costing $100 to $300 per tooth. When decay progresses to the pulp, root canal treatment costs $800 to $1,500 per tooth, and extraction plus tooth replacement costs $1,500 to $6,000. Auburn Hills Dental’s preventive and early restorative approach saves patients significant money over their lifetime.
Composite Fillings Preserve 25% More Tooth Structure Than Amalgam Fillings
Modern composite fillings require less tooth removal than traditional silver amalgam fillings because they bond to the tooth structure. The Journal of Dental Research reports that composite restorations preserve natural tooth structure while providing excellent durability. Preserving tooth structure is critical because each filling weakens the tooth, and more tooth material means a stronger, longer-lasting restoration.
Untreated Tooth Decay Leads to Extraction in 80% of Severe Cases
When cavities are left untreated, decay spreads to the tooth root and pulp, eventually requiring extraction. Extracting a natural tooth creates bone loss, causes remaining teeth to shift, and requires costly replacement solutions like implants or bridges. Auburn Hills Dental treats cavities early to preserve natural teeth and prevent complications.
Dental Crowns Restore Function and Extend Tooth Life by 10 to 15 Years
Teeth weakened by large fillings, cracks, or root canal treatment benefit from crown protection. A crown restores the tooth’s strength and prevents fracture or further deterioration. The Journal of Prosthodontic Research reports that properly placed crowns last 10 to 15 years or longer, making them one of the most predictable restorative solutions available.
Dental Bridges Prevent Remaining Teeth from Shifting and Creating Bite Problems
When a tooth is missing, adjacent teeth naturally shift into the empty space, creating misalignment, bite problems, and accelerated wear on other teeth. Dental bridges fill the space and maintain proper tooth alignment. Preventing tooth shifting avoids future orthodontic problems and preserves the patient’s natural bite.
Restored Teeth Function at 90% of Natural Tooth Capacity
Composite fillings, crowns, and bridges restore teeth to 85 to 98% of their natural function when properly designed and placed. Modern restorative materials are strong, durable, and bond securely to tooth structure. Auburn Hills Dental uses advanced restorative techniques to ensure that treated teeth function effectively for eating, speaking, and maintaining proper oral health.
Read Our Verified Reviews
Dentist Auburn Hills
Questions Auburn Hills Dental Patients Ask About Restorative Dentistry
What is the difference between a filling and a crown, and when is each recommended?
A filling is used to repair a cavity or minor damage when the tooth structure is still largely intact. Fillings work best for small to moderate cavities. A crown is recommended when a large filling is needed, the tooth has had a root canal, or the tooth is cracked or severely weakened. Crowns provide greater protection and last longer than large fillings. Dr. Joseph Sheena evaluates each tooth to determine the best restorative option.
How long do composite fillings last?
Composite fillings typically last 5 to 10 years, though the durability depends on the size and location of the filling and the patient’s bite force. Smaller fillings on non-biting surfaces last longer, while larger fillings on back teeth may require replacement sooner. Auburn Hills Dental uses high-quality composite materials and advanced placement techniques to maximize filling longevity.
Can a tooth with a large filling be saved, or does it need a crown?
A tooth with a large filling may be saved with a crown to provide additional protection and strength. Large fillings weaken the tooth’s structure, making it more prone to fracture. If a patient’s tooth has a large filling and symptoms of weakness or sensitivity, Dr. Joseph Sheena may recommend a crown to preserve the tooth and prevent extraction.
What should I do if my crown or bridge becomes loose or damaged?
If a crown or bridge becomes loose or damaged, contact Auburn Hills Dental immediately for evaluation and repair. A loose restoration can allow bacteria and decay to enter underneath, damaging the underlying tooth. Depending on the extent of damage, the restoration may be recemented or replaced. Prompt treatment prevents more serious complications.
How are dental bridges attached, and do they require special cleaning?
A dental bridge is anchored to the adjacent teeth using crowns or bonded attachments. The bridge literally bridges the gap where the missing tooth was located. Bridges require special cleaning with a water irrigator or floss threader to clean under the bridge where the replacement tooth sits. Proper cleaning prevents decay on the anchor teeth and maintains the bridge’s longevity.
“Restorative dentistry is about saving teeth. Many patients think that when a tooth has a cavity or damage, extraction is inevitable, but that’s rarely the case. With modern materials and techniques, we can restore teeth to their full strength and beauty. I always tell patients that their natural teeth, even restored ones, function better and last longer than any replacement option. A restored natural tooth is always preferable to extraction and replacement. That’s why I emphasize early treatment and preservation whenever possible.”
— Dr. Joseph Sheena, DDS
