The Department of Restorative Dentistry is a specialty that focuses on the diagnosis of structural defects in dental tissues caused by developmental or acquired conditions and on restoring the lost anatomy, function, and aesthetics of teeth through operative procedures. Our department works in the fields of cariology, preventive dentistry, operative/restorative dentistry, and aesthetic dentistry.

In our clinic, adult patients with tooth structure loss caused by dental caries or other factors are treated using current knowledge and technologies. Procedures include direct fillings, inlay and onlay restorations, laminate veneer restorations, and fiber post/core applications. These treatments aim to correct structural and shape abnormalities of the teeth and restore both function and aesthetics.

In addition, within the scope of preventive dentistry, procedures are performed to assess and reduce the risk of dental caries, as well as to manage tooth sensitivity and halitosis.

In the field of aesthetic dentistry, at-home and in-office tooth whitening procedures are performed for discolored vital or non-vital teeth. Restorative procedures may also be carried out following analysis of the smile line in order to provide patients with a healthier and more aesthetic smile.

What is Dental Caries?

Dental caries is a disease characterized by the loss of hard dental tissue caused by acidic by-products produced by bacteria, particularly when tooth surfaces are not adequately cleaned after the consumption of carbohydrate-containing foods.

What Can Be Done to Prevent Dental Caries?

• Limit the consumption of sugary and sticky foods and beverages.
• Brush the teeth effectively twice a day.
• Use dental floss or other appropriate interdental cleaning methods.
• Have regular dental examinations, generally twice a year or as recommended by your dentist.

How Can You Tell Whether You Have Dental Caries?

Changes in tooth color, loss of surface integrity, bad breath, and sensitivity to cold or sweet foods may be signs of dental caries.

How is Dental Caries Treated?

Decayed tooth tissue is removed and the affected area is restored with an appropriate filling material, helping re-establish the integrity, function, and shape of the tooth.

Can Teeth With Extensive Loss of Tooth Structure Be Restored With Fillings?

If sufficient healthy tooth structure remains, inlay or onlay restorations may be used. These restorations are prepared indirectly and are generally completed over more than one appointment.

Does Every Sensitive Tooth Require a Filling?

No. Treatment depends on the underlying cause of the sensitivity.

In cases involving tooth wear or gum recession, desensitizing agents or other conservative treatments may sometimes be sufficient without the need for a filling.

What Causes Tooth Wear?

Common causes include:

• Incorrect or overly aggressive toothbrushing
• Abrasive toothpastes
• Hard-bristled toothbrushes
• Frequent consumption of acidic foods and beverages
• Clenching or grinding of the teeth
• Bite or occlusal abnormalities

What is Tooth Whitening?

Tooth whitening is an aesthetic procedure in which chemical whitening agents are applied to discolored teeth to lighten their shade by several levels.

What Causes Tooth Discoloration?

Possible causes include:

• Developmental abnormalities
• Dental trauma
• Foods and beverages that cause staining
• Smoking and other tobacco products
• Aging
• Certain diseases and medications
• Mouth rinses containing staining agents

What Should Be Done Before Tooth Whitening?

Oral hygiene should be good before whitening treatment. Surface stains and dental calculus should be removed, and any necessary dental treatment should be completed beforehand.

What Methods Are Used for Tooth Whitening?

Two main methods may be used:

In-office whitening: Performed by the dentist in the dental clinic.

At-home whitening: Performed using custom-made trays and whitening products prescribed or supervised by the dentist.

When appropriate, these two methods may be used together.

Can Teeth That Have Undergone Root Canal Treatment Be Whitened?

Yes. Non-vital teeth that have undergone root canal treatment can be whitened using an internal bleaching technique, in which the dentist places a whitening agent inside the tooth.

Does Whitening Gel Affect Porcelain Restorations?

No. Whitening gels do not change the color of porcelain restorations.

If restorations in the aesthetic zone are planned to be replaced, whitening is generally performed first so that the new restorations can be matched to the final tooth shade.

What is a Laminate Veneer?

Laminate veneers are thin porcelain or composite restorations applied to the front teeth to improve problems related to tooth shape, color, or alignment.

How Are Laminate Veneers Applied?

A minimal amount of tooth structure may be removed from the tooth surface when necessary. Porcelain or composite laminate veneers are then bonded to the tooth using special adhesive systems.

Who May Benefit From Laminate Veneers?

Laminate veneers may be considered for patients who have:

• Discoloration of the front teeth
• Tooth shape abnormalities or minor alignment problems
• Spaces between the teeth
• Old or discolored fillings
• Discoloration that does not respond adequately to whitening
• Fractured or worn teeth

What Should You Pay Attention to After Laminate Veneers Are Bonded?

Good oral hygiene should be maintained, and patients should avoid biting very hard foods or objects with the restored teeth. Habits such as teeth grinding, nail biting, and biting pens or pencils should also be avoided or appropriately managed.

Regular dental examinations, generally at least once or twice a year depending on individual needs, are important for maintaining the health and longevity of laminate restorations.