In the dental field, terms such as “basic” or “major” are used to describe different types of dental procedures. Unfortunately, we often find that our patients are confused about what is classified as a “basic” dental procedure and what is classified as “major,” especially when we talk about restorative dental care.

When your dentist uses the term “major restorative dentistry,” they refer to services that are more extensive than basic tooth fillings or root canals. A few examples of these procedures include replacing missing teeth with dentures, dental crowns, and dental bridges.

It’s essential to understand the difference between basic and major procedures mainly because of the differences in insurance. While basic procedures are typically covered by insurance between 75 and 100 percent of the total cost, major restorative dentistry procedures are often only covered up to 50 percent. This means that you’ll be paying for half of your dental care out of pocket.

You must also keep regular appointments with your dentist to avoid the need for major costly procedures. The better you adequately maintain your oral health, the more money you can save in the long run. Still, some of these procedures are necessary as we age. So, let’s take a look at what that means for you and your overall dental care.

Why is Major Restorative Dentistry Important?

Before discussing some of the most common major restorative dentistry procedures, let’s talk about the importance of restorative dentistry. Restorative dentistry is performed when a tooth needs to be repaired or replaced. The overall goal of these dental procedures is to restore the appearance of your teeth and their function.

Furthermore, there are many benefits to major restorative care when it is needed. A few include restored functionality of your teeth, the replacement of teeth, the elimination of pain, an improved smile, and the prevention of more severe issues down the road. So, let’s take a further look at some of your options.

  1. Dental Crowns
    Dental crowns are the first of the procedures classified as major restorative dental care. A dental crown, sometimes referred to as a cap, is the shape of a tooth and is placed over a damaged tooth, whether it be a fractured filling or a result of tooth decay. The crown works to keep your teeth aligned to avoid more severe issues down the road.
  2. Dental Implants
    Dental implants replace missing, cracked or diseased teeth. In extreme cases, implants are a reliable and permanent way to replace missing teeth and missing roots. In this dental procedure, artificial rooting is placed above the jawbone for the new artificial teeth to be placed on top. Dental implants are typically used in conjunction with dental bridges (which we’ll talk about next) to keep the teeth properly aligned.
  3. Dental Bridges
    A dental bridge replaces a missing tooth by suspending an artificial tooth between either the natural teeth, two crowns, or a dental implant. Dental bridges are critical because they anchor artificial teeth, firmly rooting them in place. At the same time, bridges will prevent your other teeth from moving out of place and becoming misaligned.
  4. Inlay and Onlay
    Both inlays and onlays are major restorative dental care procedures that use gold, porcelain, or composite resin to fill large cavities. While inlays do not extend over the cusps of the tooth, onlays do. Thankfully, both inlay and onlay materials are matched to your natural tooth coloring to create a natural, beautiful effect.

Major Restorative Dental Care Made Easy

Think you might need some major dental work? Fortunately, you’ve found the most dependable dental team in the Fortville and Anderson, IN areas! At Advanced Indiana, we specialize in all major restorative dental care services and we’ll have your smile back to looking its best in no time. Our services are affordable and provided by some of the most highly skilled dentists in the area.

We look forward to addressing your restorative dental care needs! Contact us today to learn what your options are! You can also get started by requesting an appointment online.