Restorative dentistry is the study, diagnosis and integrated
management of diseases of the teeth and their supporting structures and the
rehabilitation of the dentition to functional and aesthetic requirements of the individual. Restorative
dentistry encompasses the dental specialties of endodontics,
periodontics and
prosthodontics and its foundation is based upon how these interact in cases requiring multifaceted care. In addition, restorative needs not derive from only diseases of the teeth like cavities and medical conditions but also from trauma. "Traumatic injuries to anterior (front) teeth are frequently encountered in children and adults". The degree of the
trauma will dictate what restorative treatment will be needed and could involve one or more of the dental specialties listed above.
In regards to
dental cavities (decay, caries) "The eventual outcome of
dental caries is determined by the dynamic balance between pathological factors that lead to
demineralization and protective factors that lead to remineralization". What this means is that the disease that is decay can be reversed if caught in its early stages of formation. However, if not detected quick enough then the decay will spread and become a cavity that will continue to spread internally and/or externally of the tooth until a restorative method of intervention takes place. The prevention of decay is always the primary goal; however, the reality is a major proportion of the population needs or already has restorations of some kind. Once placed, restorations have a "shelf life" and their lifetime will be influenced by an array of factors and vary enormously.
Relevant Topics in General Science
