Conservative Dentistry
Embracing Conservative Dentistry at Pure Prosthodontics, Houston
At Pure Prosthodontics, we believe in preserving as much of your natural tooth structure as possible. Conservative dentistry is the cornerstone of our practice, aiming to minimize tooth preparation and maximize the health, aesthetics, and function of your teeth. Here, we explain the hierarchy of our conservative procedures, from the least to the most invasive, ensuring you understand all your options.
- Composite Restorations
Composite fillings are the most conservative option for treating dental cavities or minor damage. Unlike traditional fillings, composites are tooth-colored and require minimal tooth structure removal. They bond directly to the surface of the tooth, strengthening the remaining structure and providing excellent aesthetic results. Ideal for small to mid-size repairs, composite restorations are a quick, effective way to restore the health and appearance of your teeth without extensive tooth alteration.
- Inlays
When a tooth suffers more significant decay that a simple filling can’t fix, but doesn’t need a full crown, an inlay is an ideal choice. Inlays are pre-molded fillings fitted into the grooves of a tooth and do not extend over the cusps. They are usually made from porcelain or composite resin, materials known for their durability and color matching properties. Inlays are stronger and last longer than regular fillings, offering a great way to conserve tooth structure while restoring an affected tooth.
- Onlays
Onlays are a step up from inlays in terms of the area they cover. They are sometimes referred to as “partial crowns” because they cover one or more cusps of the tooth. Onlays are used when the damage is extensive enough to require more coverage than an inlay but not so severe as to necessitate a full crown. Like inlays, onlays are created from durable materials like porcelain and composite resin, offering a robust and aesthetically pleasing restoration without significant alteration to the tooth structure.
- Crowns
A crown is the most comprehensive form of conservative restoration we offer at Pure Prosthodontics. It is recommended when a tooth has undergone significant decay, damage, or has been weakened by a large filling. Crowns cover the entire visible part of the tooth above the gum line, acting as a cap that provides strength, durability, and protection. While more invasive than the other options, crowns still focus on conserving as much of the original tooth as possible, restoring its function and appearance effectively.
We are Committed to Providing Conservative Dentistry
At Pure Prosthodontics in Houston, our commitment is to your oral health and the preservation of your natural teeth. From composite fillings to full crowns, our range of conservative procedures ensures that we can cater to a wide array of dental needs with the least amount of tooth alteration necessary. Schedule a consultation today, and let us help you maintain a healthy, beautiful smile with the most conservative approach suitable for your dental condition.
