Overland Park dentist explains biomimetic dental care

At Dentistry by Shane Nelson DDS, we are proud to provide patients in the Overland Park, Kansas area a different type of dental care than most people are accustomed to. In addition to being a holistic dentist that uses biocompatible materials to optimize your oral health, Dr. Nelson uses biomimetic dental techniques to restore the health and function of patients’ teeth.

What is biomimetic dentistry?

Biomimetic dentistry is a type of dental care that strives to preserve as much of the natural tooth structure as possible and to restore the biomechanics and function of teeth with materials that are biocompatible with the human body. A core belief in biomimetic dentistry is that your natural tooth material and structure provides optimal oral health and function, and it is in a patient’s best interest to preserve their natural teeth to the extent possible to avoid weakening the tooth, risking further damage, and compromising your overall oral health.

Treatments that can benefit from biomimetic dentistry principles

Biomimetic dentistry can be practiced in the context of a wide array of dental treatments. Some examples of common scenarios in which Dr. Shane Nelson will use biomimetic principles include:

• Fillings for cavities: Rather than using metal amalgam, which contains toxic mercury and expands and contracts at a different rate than natural tooth material, Dr. Nelson uses biomimetic materials that look, feel, and function like a natural tooth to seal off the decayed area and restore the tooth’s natural shape.
• Dental crowns: Dr. Nelson uses biomimetic principles and materials to restore the natural strength, shape, and function to help the tooth resist bacterial infection, cracks, breaks, and decay.

In addition to the benefits for your oral health that biomimetic dentistry offers, patients often find that this method of care is less painful, reduces sensitivity, and helps avoid costly follow-up treatments in the future. To schedule your appointment at Dentistry by Shane Nelson DDS, call our Overland Park, Kansas office today at (913) 297-7800.