Restorative Dentistry
4229 Lafayette Center Dr
STE 1125 B-2
Chantilly , Virginia - 20151
Meet our Team
Restorative Dentistry at Smile Daily Dentistry
Restorative Dentistry
With the use of modern technology and improved techniques, our team is able to restore a tooth back to its normal shape, appearance and function. If you have been suffering from pain caused by decay or other oral health conditions, you may benefit from restorative dentistry.
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Composite Fillings
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Crowns
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Bridges
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Dental Implants
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Dentures
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Inlay and Onlay Restorations
Invisalign
Invisalign(TM) is a modern technique to straighten teeth without the hassle of traditional metal wires. Invisalign(TM) is a clear, removable device that you wear over your teeth for about 20 hours a day. This device ultimately makes its more convenient for you to eat, brush and floss. It is also comfortable and easy to wear. Invisalign(TM) is visually more appealing and will give you the confidence to straighten your teeth without the metal look.
The process of getting Invisalign(TM) is easy and convenient. It first begins with a consultation with your dentist. Once he or she determines if you are a candidate for Invisalign(TM), a model of your teeth will be created on the computer to ensure a step-by-step process to getting your teeth straight. This allows you to see a visual representation of what your teeth can look like upon completion of treatment. A set of aligners is created every two weeks. Each aligner is made so that your teeth are slightly straighter than the previous trays. The amount of time and number of aligners worn differs depending on how straight you want your teeth.
Choosing Invisalign(TM) rids of most problems that traditional braces may cause. It reduces pain, discomfort and mouth sores that you may endure from the metal brackets and wires. It also decreases your chances of getting tooth decay and plaque buildup from inadequate brushing and flossing.
Dental Crowns
Dr. Ahuja’s most common restorative procedure is dental crown restoration. Dental crowns are a solution for discolored or misshapen teeth, or to fortify a tooth that is compromised by damage or decay. They also address a variety of issues including replacing metal fillings, closing gaps between teeth, decay, cracked or chipped teeth. Advances in both technology and materials means that patients enjoy an improved experience and more natural looking and lasting results.
Dental Crowns
The dental crown process will require two visits to our office. The initial visit will include laying the foundation for final placement of a custom, color matched dental crown and will include:
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Tooth preparation: Dr. Ahuja will prepare your tooth by removing any decay or damage and reducing the structure for placing your crown. Dental impressions will also be taken to be used in the fabrication of your crown so that it fits snugly on your remaining tooth structure and comfortably between existing teeth.
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Final placement: once complete, your crown will be permanently attached, adjusted and then polished for a beautiful result.
Dental Bridges
A dental bridge is a common solution for tooth loss. A bridge is made by placing 2 crowns on anchoring teeth and connecting them with false teeth, or “pontics”.
Crowns and bridges are restorative dental procedures and can be made of various strong materials, such as: porcelain, metal and ceramics.
Bridges can:
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Restore your smile
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Provide you with the ability to properly chew and speak
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Maintain the intended shape of your face
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Distribute the forces in your bite properly by replacing missing teeth
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Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position
When receiving a bridge, you will first have your anchor or “abutment” teeth prepared. Tooth preparation may involve removing part of these teeth in order to securely attach the dental crowns, which will hold the false tooth or teeth in place. Next, your doctor will take an impression of your teeth, which is necessary for the lab to create your bridge. Your dentist will provide a temporary bridge to wear until the final bridge is placed.
The number of visits and the exact process may vary based on your Dr.Ahuja's recommendation.
Composite Fillings
Harmful bacteria on the tooth can lead to decay. Your dentist can remove the decayed portion of the tooth and fill the area. Fillings can also be used to repair cracked or broken teeth and teeth that have been worn down. Tooth colored fillings are made out of porcelain or composite resin, which is undetectable and offers an aesthetically pleasing solution for a decayed tooth. This protects the tooth from infection and further decay.
When decay is left untreated, it can worsen, causing further infection and more severe pain. The infected tooth may eventually require a root canal or extraction.
The process for placing a composite resin dental filling is as follows:
i. The tooth is isolated from saliva to keep it dry.
ii. An air abrasion is used to remove the infected part of the tooth.
iii. The composite resin is placed in layers over the opening.
iv. A special light is used to harden each layer of composite resin material.
v. After the tooth is filled, the composite resin is shaped to resemble a real tooth.
Composite resin does not only restores your teeth but also gives you a natural-look.
You can decrease your risk of cavities and other dental diseases by:
Brushing your teeth twice a day
Flossing daily
Keeping up with regular professional cleanings
Avoid eating or drinking acidic or sugary foods and beverages
Root Canal Therapy
A root canal is a treatment of the center of the tooth that is inflamed, infected or dead. The center of the tooth, called the pulp, is a soft substance that consists of nerve, blood vessels and connective tissue. Symptoms of the infection include visible injury or swelling of the tooth and sensitivity to temperature or pain in the tooth and gums. If you experience any of the symptoms, contact your dental office.
Your dentist will take an x-ray of the tooth. If he or she determines that you need a root canal treatment, 1 or 2 appointments will be scheduled based on the size and duration of the abscess and other factors.
Before starting root canal therapy, the doctor will administer local anesthesia to ensure your complete comfort. A dental dam is placed on the infected site to isolate the affected area. A small opening is made through the top of the tooth to gain access to the pulp. The pulp, which is the soft tissue inside the root canal, is removed from the chamber and canals. The canals are then cleaned with a disinfecting solution. X-rays may be taken throughout the procedure to ensure each canal is being adequately treated.
Once the canals are cleaned, they are filled with gutta percha, a rubber-like material to protect and seal. A temporary filling may be placed in the opening until it can be replaced by a permanent filling. After the root canal is completed, the tooth will need a crown to protect it from fracturing
After the procedure, your tooth may feel sensitive for the first few days. This discomfort may be relieved with over-the-counter or prescribed pain medications. Avoid chewing on the treated tooth until you have a full restoration.
Root canal therapy can preserve a patient’s tooth for a lifetime. It is a highly successful procedure with more than a 95% success rate.
Dental Implants
Dental implants is a long-term solution for tooth loss. They are also used to secure partial or complete dentures as well as support for dental bridges.
An artificial tooth is surgically anchored into your jaw to hold a replacement tooth in place. Since these implants are held by the jaw bone, they have the same, dependable foundation as natural tooth roots. With permanently placed implants, you will no longer have to experience discomfort in chewing, laughing or speaking.
Dental implants resemble natural teeth and can completely restore your smile and substantially improve your oral health. More advantages of dental implants include:
• Improved speech – With a removable device like dentures, teeth can slip within the mouth and can cause you to slur or mumble your words. A dental implant allows you to speak without the worry that teeth might slip.
• Improved comfort – Dental implants remove the discomfort of removable dentures.
• Improved oral health – Because nearby teeth are not altered to support the implant, more of your own teeth are left intact, improving long-term oral health.
• Durability – With proper oral care, dental implants can last a lifetime.
• Easier eating – Dental implants function like your own teeth, allowing you to eat foods without pain.
Your team will discuss tooth replacement options with you to help you make the most informed decision. Modern technology is utilized to minimize any discomfort associated with receiving a dental implant. This allows for a very relaxed and comfortable experience, for even the most fearful patients.
There are many factors that will be considered prior to recommending a dental implant, including: adequate bone support, healthy gum tissue, overall health, and sinus and nerve location.
Tooth Extractions
A dental extraction may be recommended when a tooth is deeply decayed, causing severe pain or in conjunction with orthodontic treatment. Pain management techniques and technology have made dental extractions possible with little to no discomfort.
After this procedure, be sure to rest and follow the doctor’s orders. You can use a cold compress to keep swelling down and reduce pain. Also, limit yourself to soft foods after surgery. Avoid drinking from a straw and smoking to prevent dry sockets. Your dental team will provide after care instructions following your extraction.
Extraction Site Preservation
When removing a tooth, it may be important to consider what will be done with the empty space after that tooth is removed. If nothing is done with the extraction site, the jaw bone may degenerate and change shape during the healing process.
A dental implant or bridge can be used to fill in the empty space.
Dentures
Dentures are beneficial for those who wish to replace all or most of their teeth. They are custom-made to provide a natural appearance and comfortable fit in your mouth. Dentures may restore your confidence and allow you to smile freely.
Depending on your need, you may benefit from a full or partial denture:
Conventional Full Dentures
Removing all of your teeth may be valuable to your oral health. When your gums are healed, your dentures are placed in your mouth and adjustments may be made. Your dentist strives to make this process as comfortable as possible for you.
Immediate Full Dentures
Immediate dentures are placed instantly after your teeth are removed. These dentures are recommended for those who have suffered from tooth decay, gum disease or dental injuries. Immediate full dentures speeds up the wait time for healing without teeth. Follow-up appointments will have to be made to adjust dentures if needed.
Partial Dentures
Partial dentures are used to replace several missing teeth. Partial dentures prevent shifting and erupting of the other teeth.
You should care for your dentures just like you would for your teeth. They should be brushed daily to remove food particles and plaque. Brushing can also help prevent the teeth from staining. You will also need to keep regular appointments with your dentist to screen for oral cancer, correct ill-fitting dentures and contribute to your overall health.