DENTISTRY

Restorative Dentistry focuses on preventing and treating damage to the teeth caused by tooth decay, trauma, fractures, wear or other conditions.

Treatment aims to preserve as much healthy tooth structure as possible and rebuild what has been lost, restoring the tooth’s shape, size, strength, function and appearance.

Cosmetic Dentistry applies these principles to improving the appearance of the smile while seeking natural results that blend with the surrounding teeth.

Dental caries

Dental caries, or tooth decay, is a multifactorial disease mediated by dental biofilm and strongly influenced by the frequency of sugar consumption.

Bacteria within the biofilm use sugars from food and drink and produce acids. When these acid attacks occur frequently, the hard tissues of the tooth can gradually lose minerals.

In addition to diet and plaque accumulation, the development of dental caries may be influenced by:

• Inadequate oral hygiene;
• Insufficient exposure to fluoride;
• The quantity and composition of saliva;
• Tooth anatomy;
• Certain health conditions;
• Behavioural and individual factors.

How does a caries lesion develop?

In its early stages, dental caries may not cause pain or produce a visible cavity. When detected early, some lesions may still be controlled through preventive and remineralisation measures.

If demineralisation continues, the lesion may pass through the enamel and reach the dentine, the tissue beneath the enamel. A cavity may then develop and a dental restoration may be required.

When decay approaches or reaches the pulp, it may cause pain, significant sensitivity or infection, and root canal treatment may be necessary. In advanced cases, the tooth may no longer be restorable.

What does Restorative Dentistry treat?

Restorative Dentistry may be used to treat:

• Primary dental caries;
• Secondary caries developing next to an existing restoration;
• Fractured or chipped teeth;
• Worn teeth;
• Old, fractured, leaking or poorly fitting restorations;
• Changes in tooth shape, size or appearance;
• Small gaps or dental irregularities, when clinically appropriate.

After removing tooth tissue that cannot be preserved, the tooth can be rebuilt with a restorative material suited to its location, function and aesthetic requirements.

Cosmetic Dentistry

Cosmetic Dentistry aims to improve the shape, proportions, texture or appearance of the teeth while respecting oral health and chewing function.

Treatment is planned individually, taking into account the remaining tooth structure, bite, colour of the surrounding teeth and the patient’s expectations.

The purpose is to preserve natural tooth structure and achieve a balanced, functional result that blends with the smile.

Prevention and follow-up care

Regular dental examinations are important because caries lesions may develop without symptoms during their early stages.

Brushing with fluoride toothpaste, cleaning between the teeth and reducing the frequency of sugary foods and drinks help prevent new lesions.

Dental restorations should also be monitored over time, as they may become worn, fractured or damaged and eventually require repair or replacement.

If you have tooth decay, a fractured tooth or an old restoration, book a Restorative Dentistry appointment at Wave Dental in Coimbra, Juncal or Valado dos Frades, in the municipality of Nazaré.