Our Restorative Dentistry Services
When the pulp of a tooth becomes infected due to deep decay or injury, we perform root canal therapy to save the tooth. During this procedure, the damaged pulp is removed and the inside of the tooth is cleaned and sealed.
Dental crowns are caps we place over damaged teeth to provide protection and support to the underlying structure. We make them using CEREC® technology to create a perfect fit.
Dental bridges replace one or more missing teeth by anchoring artificial restorations to adjacent natural teeth or dental implants. We offer fixed bridges, which we cement to your teeth, and removable bridges you can take out at home.
Implants are permanent tooth replacements that mimic the natural structure of your teeth. After we fix them to your jawbone with surgery, they offer stability, durability, and aesthetics.
Partial dentures are removable appliances that replace one or more missing teeth when some natural ones remain. They consist of artificial teeth attached to a metal or acrylic base that matches the color of your gums. We provide partial dentures, All-on-X, and Full-arch dentures depending on your needs.
Benefits of Restorative Dentistry
- Improved chewing and speaking abilities
- Enhanced smile aesthetics and confidence
- Prevention of further dental problems
- Better overall oral health
- Long-lasting solutions for damaged or missing teeth
Who Needs Restorative Dentistry?
Life happens, and sometimes your teeth require professional help to return to their healthy form and function. You may find yourself needing restorative care for various reasons, and you’re certainly not alone. Tooth decay affects nearly 90% of all adults between 20 and 64, and it’s one of the most common reasons patients visit us. Plaque constantly forms on teeth, and when you eat or drink anything with sugar, the bacteria present in plaque create acids that attack your enamel and can form cavities over time.
Common Reasons People Choose Restorative Treatment
Restorative dentistry aims to repair and replace damaged or missing teeth, so if you have any of the following concerns, our restorative dental services may be right for you:
- Cavities that have grown beyond what a simple filling can fix
- Teeth that have been cracked or chipped from accidents or everyday wear
- Worn-down teeth from grinding or clenching during sleep
- Missing teeth that make eating difficult or affect your confidence
- Old fillings that have loosened or started to fail over time
- Dental work from years past that needs updating or repair
If you’ve been putting off treatment because you’re worried about discomfort, modern restorative dentistry has come a long way, and we’re here to help you explore solutions that fit your unique situation and lifestyle. Whether you’ve lost or damaged a single tooth or several, restorative options, such as dental crowns, implants, bridges, and dentures, can restore your full function and confidence.
What to Expect During Your Restorative Dental Treatment
We understand visiting the dentist can be intimidating, especially when you’re dealing with dental issues that have been bothering you for a while, so we’ve designed our approach to be as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
Initial Consultation
Your first visit helps us get to know you and understand your concerns. Dr. Hardt will sit down with you to discuss what’s been bothering you and perform a gentle, thorough examination. Using our advanced diagnostic tools, including digital X-rays and intraoral cameras, we can provide a comprehensive picture of your oral health and identify the best ways to assist you.
We take the time to explain everything in terms that make sense to you. Our caring team will walk you through your treatment options, discuss timelines, and help you understand what to expect. We’ll also discuss financial options to ensure your care fits comfortably within your budget.
Treatment Timeline
Every patient’s needs are different, and we tailor our approach accordingly. If you need a crown, we use our CEREC technology to create your restoration in just one visit—no temporary crowns, no multiple appointments. For more complex procedures, such as dental implants, we’ll work with you to create a treatment schedule that allows for proper healing while accommodating your busy life.
Sedation Options
We want you to feel relaxed and at ease during your treatment. If you tend to feel anxious about dental procedures, we offer sedation options to help you feel more comfortable. Dr. Hardt’s gentle touch and our team’s caring approach mean a stress and pain-free experience.
Why Choose Richard Hardt's Live Oak Dental Group for Your Restorative Dental Treatment?
When you choose our practice, you’re joining a dental family that truly cares about your well-being. Dr. Hardt has been serving the Porterville community for over three decades, and his passion for helping patients achieve healthy, beautiful smiles is evident in everything he does. Additionally, our trusted practice stands out in the following ways:
A Team That Cares
Dr. Hardt works closely with Dr. Irene Cruz and Dr. Jackson Lewis, creating a warm, collaborative environment where your care is our top priority. Dr. Cruz brings her own unique expertise to our team and is fluent in Spanish, making our practice welcoming to patients from all backgrounds. Together, we ensure that you receive comprehensive, personalized care tailored to address all your needs.
Latest Technology
We’ve invested in the latest technology because it allows us to provide you with more comfortable, efficient, and effective treatments. Our CEREC same-day crown system and advanced digital imaging help us deliver beautiful results while respecting your time and comfort.
Prioritizing Your Long-Term Smile Health
We don’t provide quick fixes for your dental problems; we help you maintain your beautiful results for years to come. After your treatment, we’ll work with you to create a personalized maintenance plan that keeps your smile healthy and protects your investment. Regular checkups and cleanings become an opportunity to catch up and ensure your smile stays bright and healthy.
Restore Your Smile with Care and Compassion at Richard Hardt’s Live Oak Dental Group
You deserve to feel confident about your smile, and we’re here to help make that happen. Whether you’re dealing with a single problem tooth or need more comprehensive care, Dr. Hardt and our team will treat you like family every step of the way.
We understand that dental care is an investment, and we work with various insurance plans and offer financing options to make your treatment accessible. Our team strives to remove any barriers that might prevent you from getting the care you need and deserve. Call us at (559) 784-6523 or visit our contact form to schedule your consultation and take the first step toward a healthier, more confident smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is The Difference Between Cosmetic and Restorative Dentistry?
Restorative dentistry focuses on restoring the function and health of damaged or missing teeth, while cosmetic dentistry emphasizes improving your smile’s appearance. However, at our practice, Dr. Hardt and Dr. Cruz ensure that restorative treatments also enhance aesthetics. For example, when we place a dental crown using CEREC® technology, we match your natural tooth color perfectly, providing both functional restoration and cosmetic improvement.
Why is Restorative Dentistry Important?
Restorative dentistry is crucial for maintaining your oral health and quality of life. When teeth are damaged or missing, it can lead to pain, infection, difficulty eating, and shifting of remaining teeth. Without treatment, small problems often become larger, more expensive issues. Restorative treatments prevent these complications while preserving your natural teeth whenever possible and maintaining proper jaw alignment.
What to Expect During a Restorative Dental Procedure?
Your treatment begins with a comprehensive examination where Dr. Hardt or Dr. Cruz will assess your oral health and explain treatment options. We’ll take digital X-rays or use our iTero scanner for precise measurements. Before any procedure, we’ll discuss pain management options, including local anesthesia or sedation dentistry. During treatment, we prioritize your comfort and keep you informed about each step. Recovery instructions and follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor your healing.
How Do I Know if I am a Good Candidate for Restorative Dentistry?
Most people experiencing dental problems are good candidates for restorative dentistry. You may benefit if you have tooth pain, sensitivity, visible damage, missing teeth, or difficulty chewing. During your consultation, Dr. Hardt or Dr. Cruz will evaluate your oral health and medical history to determine the best treatment approach. We work with patients of all ages and can find solutions even for complex cases. To discuss your specific needs, contact our office to schedule an evaluation.
