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If your teeth feel beyond repair, it’s easy to assume nothing can be done. Maybe you’ve been told you need extensive dental work, or you’ve been struggling with pain, missing teeth, or difficulty chewing for years.

Here’s the truth: No matter how bad things seem, you always have options.

Restorative dentistry in Porterville focuses on rebuilding and repairing damaged teeth or replacing them when necessary. Whether your teeth need strengthening, replacing, or a full-mouth restoration, there’s a solution that can give you a functional, healthy, and natural-looking smile again.

Understanding the Severity of the Problem

Bad teeth can mean different things for different people. For some, it’s extensive cavities and tooth decay. For others, it’s gum disease, missing teeth, or severe discoloration. The right solution depends on what’s causing the issue and how much your teeth and gums have been affected. A dentist can evaluate your condition and help you determine the best course of action.

Option 1: Professional Cleaning and Fillings

If your teeth are in bad shape due to cavities and plaque buildup but are still structurally sound, a deep professional cleaning combined with fillings can make a significant difference. Fillings repair decay and prevent further damage, while regular cleanings help maintain healthy gums and prevent more serious issues from developing.  

Additionally, fluoride treatments and dental sealants may be recommended to strengthen your teeth and protect them from further decay.

Option 2: Dental Crowns for Damaged Teeth

When teeth are severely decayed or weakened but still salvageable, crowns are a great option. A crown is a cap that your dentist places over a damaged tooth to restore its strength and appearance. This is ideal for those with large cavities, cracked teeth, or worn-down enamel.  

Crowns can be made from various materials, including porcelain, metal, or a combination of both, to provide durability and a natural look.

Option 3: Root Canals to Save Infected Teeth

If you have deep infections causing pain or sensitivity, a root canal can remove the infected tissue while preserving the tooth. This procedure helps eliminate discomfort and protects your natural tooth structure, preventing the need for extraction.  

Root canals have come a long way in recent years and are now much more comfortable than they used to be, often no more painful than getting a filling.

Option 4: Extractions and Bridges

Sometimes, a tooth is beyond saving. In such cases, a tooth extraction may be necessary to prevent infection from spreading. If you lose a tooth, a dental bridge can fill the gap, restoring your ability to chew and speak properly while maintaining the alignment of your remaining teeth. Bridges consist of one or more artificial teeth anchored by crowns on adjacent natural teeth or implants.

Option 5: Dentures for Multiple Missing Teeth

If you have multiple missing or severely damaged teeth, dentures may be a practical solution. Modern dentures are comfortable, natural-looking, and custom-fitted to your mouth. Full dentures replace an entire arch of teeth, while partial dentures replace only the missing ones, fitting around your remaining natural teeth.  

Dentures have improved significantly in comfort and aesthetics, and with proper care, they can last for many years.

Option 6: Dental Implants for a Long-Term Solution

For those looking for a permanent fix, dental implants are the gold standard. Implants replace missing teeth by anchoring a titanium post into the jawbone, topped with a realistic-looking crown. They function just like natural teeth, providing strength, stability, and a long-lasting solution. Implants also help prevent bone loss in the jaw, which can occur when teeth are missing for extended periods.

Option 7: Full-Mouth Reconstruction for Severe Cases

If your teeth are in extremely poor condition, a full-mouth reconstruction might be the best approach. This combines multiple restorative treatments, such as crowns, implants, gum treatments, and sometimes orthodontics, to completely rebuild your smile.  

A dentist can create a personalized plan based on your needs. While it may take multiple visits and procedures, the end result can be life-changing, restoring not only your smile but also your confidence and overall health.

Costs and Financing Options

One common concern about dental treatments is cost. Fortunately, many dental offices offer financing plans, insurance options, and payment programs to make care more affordable. Some treatments, like fillings and extractions, may be covered by insurance, while more advanced procedures like implants and crowns may require additional financial planning. Discussing your options with your dentist can help you find a solution that fits your budget.

Find the Right Solution with Restorative Dentistry in Porterville

If your teeth feel beyond repair, don’t lose hope—there are real solutions to restore your smile. Whether it’s repairing damage, replacing missing teeth, or rebuilding your entire smile, restorative dentistry offers personalized options to help you chew comfortably, speak clearly, and smile with confidence again.

At Live Oak Dental, we take the time to understand your unique situation and goals, creating a plan that works for you. If you’re ready to explore what’s possible, schedule a consultation today.