Restorative Dentistry
Restorative dentistry: protection, function, and aesthetics for your teeth
Restorative dentistry is the area of dentistry dedicated to the treatment and recovery of teeth affected by decay, fracture, wear, or changes in shape, with the aim of restoring chewing function and the natural aesthetics of the smile.
At Clínica Dr. Paulo Cardozo, each dental restoration is planned individually, using high-quality materials and digital technology, for a precise, lasting, and naturally aesthetic result.
If you have a tooth with decay, an old restoration that needs replacing, or a fracture that affects your comfort or confidence, book an assessment appointment to find the best solution for your case.
Advanced Technology in Your Restorative Dentistry
At Clínica Dr. Paulo Cardozo, restorative dentistry treatments are supported by digital imaging technology and workflows that allow more precise diagnoses and high-quality restorations.
Diagnosis with Periapical Radiograph
The digital periapical radiograph allows detailed assessment of the tooth, root, and surrounding bone. It is an essential examination for detecting hidden caries, evaluating the extent of a lesion, and confirming the viability of a tooth before any dental restoration.
Early Detection with Bitewing Radiographs
Bitewing radiographs are essential for detecting caries between the teeth at an early stage, when they are not yet visible on clinical examination. This early diagnosis enables more conservative and less invasive treatment.
Digital Impression with Intraoral Scan
The 3D intraoral scanner is used in cases requiring indirect restorations, such as ceramic inlays or onlays. The digital impression replaces traditional moulds and allows a precise fit of the restoration to the prepared tooth.
“In restorative dentistry, our goal goes beyond treating the lesion. We aim to preserve as much healthy tooth structure as possible and restore the tooth's function and natural appearance. Every restoration is a step towards protecting the patient's long-term oral health.”
What is restorative dentistry and how does it work?
Restorative dentistry is the specialty that treats and rebuilds teeth damaged by decay, fracture or wear, restoring their original shape, function and aesthetics.
In practical terms, it is the area that allows us to "save" your natural tooth whenever possible, preserving its structure, avoiding more complex treatments in the future and keeping your bite balanced.
There are two main approaches, chosen according to the extent of the damage:
- Direct composite resin restorations are completed in a single appointment: we remove the damaged portion of the tooth and rebuild it layer by layer, using a material that bonds to the natural structure and reproduces its original colour.
- Indirect ceramic restorations (inlays, onlays and veneers) are fabricated in a laboratory from a digital or physical impression of your tooth, and are recommended when structural loss is more extensive or when maximum durability and aesthetics are required.
Restoring a tooth in time helps prevent more serious problems, pain, infection, the need for root canal treatment or, ultimately, tooth loss.
We work with minimally invasive techniques, state-of-the-art materials and a clearly explained treatment plan, so that you understand exactly what will be done, how long it will take and what result to expect.
What our patients say
I had a cavity in a front tooth and was worried the restoration would be noticeable. The result was so natural that even I can't tell where it was done.
Inês Martins
I needed to replace several old restorations. The treatment was comfortable and the difference to the appearance of my smile is remarkable.
Tiago Ferreira
I chipped a tooth while eating and thought I was going to lose it. The composite resin restoration brought it back to its original shape and I can chew without any problem.
Helena Gomes
4 Steps to Your Dental Restoration
Restorative dentistry treatment at Clínica Dr. Paulo Cardozo follows a structured clinical protocol to ensure a precise diagnosis and a high-quality restoration, adapted to each clinical situation.
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Diagnosis and Assessment
At the first appointment, the dentist examines the affected tooth and requests the necessary imaging, such as a periapical radiograph or bitewing radiographs. The aim is to identify the extent of the lesion and assess how much healthy dental structure can be preserved.
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Tooth Preparation
The dentist removes only the compromised dental tissue, such as the caries or the old restoration, in a conservative manner. The preparation is carried out with care to preserve as much healthy tooth structure as possible, in accordance with the principles of minimally invasive dentistry.
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Restoration placement
In direct restorations, composite resin is applied in layers directly onto the tooth and cured with light. In indirect restorations, a digital impression is taken and the ceramic piece is produced in the laboratory based on the exact anatomy of the tooth.
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Finishing and polishing
After the restoration is placed, the dentist adjusts the shape, checks the bite, and carries out the final polish. The aim is to ensure a result that is functional, comfortable, and aesthetically in keeping with the adjacent teeth.
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Diagnosis and Assessment
At the first appointment, the dentist examines the affected tooth and requests the necessary imaging, such as a periapical radiograph or bitewing radiographs. The aim is to identify the extent of the lesion and assess how much healthy dental structure can be preserved.
0
Tooth Preparation
The dentist removes only the compromised dental tissue, such as the caries or the old restoration, in a conservative manner. The preparation is carried out with care to preserve as much healthy tooth structure as possible, in accordance with the principles of minimally invasive dentistry.
0
Restoration placement
In direct restorations, composite resin is applied in layers directly onto the tooth and cured with light. In indirect restorations, a digital impression is taken and the ceramic piece is produced in the laboratory based on the exact anatomy of the tooth.
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Finishing and polishing
After the restoration is placed, the dentist adjusts the shape, checks the bite, and carries out the final polish. The aim is to ensure a result that is functional, comfortable, and aesthetically in keeping with the adjacent teeth.
Everything you need to know about restorative dentistry
Restorative dentistry is the area of dentistry dedicated to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of damage to teeth.
Its primary objective is to restore teeth affected by tooth decay, fractures, wear, or changes in shape, in order to return the tooth to its chewing function and natural appearance.
Direct composite resin restorations are the most common procedure in restorative dentistry. The resin is applied directly to the tooth, shaped by the dentist, and light-cured in a single appointment.
This material allows the colour and texture of the natural tooth to be reproduced with great fidelity, making it the preferred choice for most clinical situations.
For cases where tooth structure loss is more extensive, indirect ceramic restorations such as inlays or onlays may be indicated.
These pieces are produced in a laboratory from a digital impression and offer greater mechanical resistance and durability, making them ideal for posterior teeth subject to high chewing forces.
Tooth decay is the primary reason a restoration becomes necessary.
It is an infectious disease caused by bacteria that produce acids capable of demineralising enamel and dentine. If not treated promptly, decay can progress to the dental pulp and require root canal treatment.
At Clínica Dr. Paulo Cardozo, restorative dentistry is practised with a focus on preserving tooth structure, patient comfort, and the aesthetic quality of the result.
If you have a tooth that needs treatment, book your assessment appointment.
Main problems treated with restorative dentistry
Restorative dentistry encompasses a variety of clinical situations in which it is necessary to treat, repair, or improve the appearance of a tooth.
At Clínica Dr. Paulo Cardozo, each case is assessed individually. Find out about the most common problems.
Dental Caries
Tooth decay is the most prevalent oral disease and results from the action of bacteria that produce acids which progressively destroy the enamel and dentine of the tooth.
It can develop on the biting surface, between the teeth, or at the gum line, and does not always cause symptoms in the initial stages.
Treatment involves the removal of the affected tissue and its replacement with a composite resin restoration that restores the tooth's shape and function.
At Clínica Dr. Paulo Cardozo, early diagnosis using digital radiography allows conservative intervention and the preservation of as much healthy tooth structure as possible.
Fractured or chipped tooth
A dental fracture can occur due to trauma, biting hard foods, or the progressive weakening of the tooth structure over time.
The extent of the fracture determines the most appropriate type of treatment, ranging from a direct restoration to a prosthetic solution.
For minor to moderate fractures, composite resin restoration allows the tooth to be rebuilt with a natural appearance in a single appointment.
The dentist assesses the vitality of the tooth and the extent of the damage to ensure that restoration is the most appropriate approach.
Old Restoration with Wear
Composite resin restorations may suffer wear, colour change, or loss of marginal fit over the years.
When a restoration no longer adequately protects the tooth, secondary decay may develop or the integrity of the remaining tooth structure may be compromised.
Replacing the restoration with a new one allows the fit to be corrected, aesthetics to be improved, and the lifespan of the tooth to be extended.
At Clínica Dr. Paulo Cardozo, regular assessment of existing restorations forms part of the preventive monitoring for each patient.
Change in Shape, Colour, or Spacing
Teeth with irregular shape, diastemas (spaces between teeth), or colour changes can affect the harmony of the smile. Aesthetic restorative dentistry allows these situations to be corrected using composite resin, without the need for significant tooth reduction.
The dentist recreates the natural anatomy of the tooth, adjusts the colour, and improves the contour to achieve a harmonious result that integrates naturally into the smile. This approach is particularly suited to visible front teeth and can be completed in a single appointment.
Discover Clínica Médica Dentária Dr. Paulo Cardozo
At Clínica Dr. Paulo Cardozo in Benavente, restorative dentistry is practised with a focus on dental preservation, patient comfort, and aesthetic quality, using digital technology and high-quality materials.
Book your appointment
If you have a tooth with decay, a fracture, or a restoration that needs to be assessed, book an appointment at Clínica Dr. Paulo Cardozo and receive a personalised treatment plan.
Clínica Dr. Paulo Cardozo
R. Vasco da Gama 6,
2130-197 Benavente, Portugal
Telephone: +351 263 516 773
Mobile: +351 919 366 534
geral@clinicapaulocardozo.pt
Frequently asked questions
about restorative dentistry
What is restorative dentistry?
This is the area of dentistry dedicated to treating teeth affected by decay, fracture, or wear, with the aim of restoring the natural shape, function, and aesthetics of the tooth.
Is a dental restoration painful?
The procedure is carried out under local anaesthesia when necessary. In most cases, the treatment is comfortable and quick, especially for direct restorations.
How long does a composite resin restoration last?
With adequate oral hygiene and regular appointments, a composite resin restoration can last many years. Durability depends on the location and the patient's habits.
Does a composite resin restoration look natural?
Yes. The composite resin is selected to match the colour of the natural tooth. After polishing, the restoration blends into the tooth in a discreet and harmonious way.
Direct or indirect restoration?
The direct restoration is carried out during the appointment using composite resin applied to the tooth. The indirect restoration is produced in a laboratory from ceramic and is indicated for more extensive structural loss.
Is it possible to replace old restorations?
Yes. Restorations with wear, colour change, or loss of adaptation can and should be replaced to protect the tooth and prevent secondary cavities.
Does restorative dentistry only treat cavities?
No. Restorative dentistry treats cavities, fractures, wear, and aesthetic changes in shape, colour, or spacing, using direct or indirect restorations.
How can I prevent the need for restorations?
Daily brushing, the use of dental floss, and regular check-up appointments are essential for preventing tooth decay and detecting problems at an early and treatable stage.
Can I have dental restorations done in Benavente?
Yes. Clínica Dr. Paulo Cardozo, in Benavente, carries out dental restorations using quality materials and digital technology. Book your assessment appointment.
Clinical Rigour and International Standards
The clinical team at Clínica Dr. Paulo Cardozo guides its practice in accordance with the guidelines of the leading oral health reference bodies, including the FDI World Dental Federation, the Ordem dos Médicos Dentistas (OMD), and the World Health Organization — Oral Health.
The continuous training and professional development of the clinical staff at Clínica Médica Dentária Dr. Paulo Cardozo, together with the integration of international recommendations into their practice, ensures that every procedure is carried out with safety and medical responsibility.