Dr. Damon R. Johnson is an Edmond, OK dentist with extensive experience correcting issues of the mouth from the common to the complex. Here, the founder of Damon R. Johnson, DDS Dental Excellence, answers questions about one of the more satisfying aspects of his job, restorative dentistry.

Q: What is restorative dentistry?

Edmond dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Restorative dentistry is the practice of managing diseases of the teeth and restoring proper function to the mouth.

Q: How does it differ from cosmetic dentistry?

Edmond, OK dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Cosmetic dentistry deals with making the smile look better. Most cosmetic procedures, like teeth whitening and elongation, don’t address the physical limitations of damaged teeth.

Q: What are some ways to prevent dental problems?

Edmond dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Aside from proper oral hygiene like brushing and flossing, regular exams help to identify potential problems so they can be prevented.

Q: What specialties does restorative dentistry encompass?

Edmond, OK dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Prosthodontics, periodontics, and endodontics are the most well-known areas. Each of these addresses specific concerns of the mouth, teeth, or gums.

Q: What are CEREC 3D® crowns?

Edmond dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: 3D crowns are custom-crafted covers for missing or damaged teeth. They are made from porcelain and match existing, natural teeth.

Q: What are the benefits of 3D x-rays?

Edmond, OK dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: 3D technology is faster and more accurate than traditional x-rays. It allows us to better identify problems and gives a full, panoramic view of the teeth and surrounding bone structure.

Q: What is the WaterLase Laser?

Edmond dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: It is a tool that we utilize to perform certain dental treatments. It is less invasive and has a faster recovery time when compared to a light-based laser. With the WaterLase, we can forgo anesthesia and the ever-dreaded dental drill, in most cases.

Q: What types of procedures is the WaterLase suitable for?

Edmond, OK dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: The WaterLase is used for teeth whitening, periodontal treatment, root canals, and to detect cavities. It is also effective at hardening restorative materials, such as crowns.

Q: What is amalgam?

Edmond dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Amalgam is a mercury-based metal alloy that is used to fill cavities.

Q: Is mercury hazardous to humans?

Edmond, OK dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: There is some evidence that suggests mercury has a damaging impact on a person’s overall health. The International Academy of Oral Medicine and Toxicology has an interesting short documentary called Smoking Teeth – Toxic Fillings, that explains the potential dangers.

Q: What are the benefits of composite fillings over amalgam?

Edmond dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: In addition to removing the risk associated with mercury-based fillings, composite material looks and feels just like a natural tooth.

Q: Are dental implants a permanent fix for missing teeth?

Edmond, OK dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Implants are permanent replacements that must be anchored to the jawbone as well as existing teeth. At Damon R. Johnson, DDS Dental Excellence, we prefer implants to bridges as they generally improve function without damage to other areas of the mouth.

Q: How long does it take to complete dental implant treatment?

Edmond dentist, Damon R. Johnson, DDS: Most implants take at least four months to properly prepare the mouth and complete the treatments. However, more advanced cases can take up to a year.